John McGinn arrived at Scotland’s World Cup camp in Charlotte amid a media flare‑up with Norway. Norway coach Ståle Solbakken and manager Brede Hangeland condemned the cancellation of a reserve‑team friendly, calling it “unprofessional” and “weak.” Clarke shrugged, while McGinn fielded questions, noting most of the squad missed the scrapped match. Norwegian press swarmed the Scottish base before the news conference, seeking a retort.

McGinn defended the decision, saying Scotland must protect its players after losing Billy Gilmour to injury. He compared the situation to Norway pulling a game if stars like Erling Haaland or Martin Ødegaard were unavailable. The midfielder also reflected on his rising profile, from a mural in Clydebank to becoming Scotland’s fifth‑all‑time scorer with 20 goals.

With a Europa League medal, a Champions League spot for next season and a World Cup debut finally realized, McGinn feels fully prepared. He urged the 19‑year‑old newcomers—Tyler Fletcher, Findlay Curtis and Ben Gannon‑Doak—to seize any jersey they earn, stressing that every player must impact the team, not just fill numbers. Scotland now banks on his form to drive results.