Fans react to Sky Sports half-time interview

Odegaard was put on the spot during the interval at Old Trafford as Sky expands behind-the-scenes access amid a new broadcasting package.

Fans push back on Sky Sports half-time interview with Odegaard

Sky Sports expanded behind-the-scenes access with a half-time interview during Arsenal's visit to Old Trafford, a feature tied to a new four-deal domestic TV package worth £6.7 billion. Viewers on X criticised the format as too intrusive, with posts urging a return to on-pitch focus. The broader deal enables substituted-player interviews and brief field-of-play footage after goals, signaling a shift in how the Premier League presents itself to fans.
In the brief chat, Odegaard described the opening 45 minutes, noting space to attack but a need for more clinical finishing. He spoke about tightening the team structure without the ball and timing counter opportunities better. The segment lasted about a minute as critics argued the format distracts players from the match.

The move reflects money and media strategy more than football culture. Expanding access can boost engagement and value for broadcasters but risks undermining players' focus and the game's purity. Fans pushing back show a tension between a live spectacle and a traditional sport. The initial reaction from some fans suggests that the new format could alienate segments of the audience.
The business side is clear: a 6.7 billion-pound deal reshapes negotiating power and broadcast calendars. Strong audience feedback will influence how far this approach goes. The broader question is whether more access translates into bigger engagement and higher rights fees or simply more noise around the sport.

Highlights

The evolving broadcast model will test how much fans value access over tradition.