Ulrik Saltnes (born 17 August 1994) is a Norwegian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Eliteserien club Bodø/Glimt and the Norway national team.
Early life and education
Saltnes was born in Bodø, Norway. He began playing football at a young age with local youth clubs, developing his skills within the Bodø/Glimt youth system.
Club career
- Bodø/Glimt (2012–present): Saltnes made his senior debut for Bodø/Glimt in 2012. Over successive seasons, he established himself as a regular starter, contributing to the club's rise in the Norwegian league. He was a key player during Bodø/Glimt's historic Eliteserien title wins in 2020 and 2021, providing goals and assists from midfield.
- Loan spells: During his early career, Saltnes was loaned to lower‑division Norwegian sides to gain experience, including a short loan to Tromsø IL in 2015.
As of the end of the 2023 season, Saltnes had made over 250 league appearances for Bodø/Glimt, scoring more than 50 goals.
International career
Saltnes received his first call‑up to the Norway senior national team in 2022. He earned his debut in a friendly match against the United States in November 2022. By 2024, he had accumulated a handful of caps, primarily featuring as a substitute in UEFA Nations League and World Cup qualifying fixtures.
Playing style
Saltnes is noted for his creative passing, ability to navigate tight spaces, and proficiency in set‑piece situations. He often operates in an advanced midfield role, contributing both to goal creation and scoring.
Honours
Club
- Bodø/Glimt
- Eliteserien: 2020, 2021, 2022
- Norwegian Cup runner‑up: 2021
Individual
- Included in the Eliteserien Team of the Year: 2020, 2021
Personal life
Saltnes resides in his hometown of Bodø. Outside of football, he is involved in community outreach programs supporting youth sport initiatives in the Nordland region.