Laura Kaminski has secured a league and cup double in Norway during her debut season with SK Brann, completing a remarkable turnaround just 10 months after leaving English football. The 38-year-old manager, who guided Crystal Palace to promotion to the Women’s Super League in 2024, relocated to Bergen in January following her departure from the London club in February 2025.
A Demanding Debut in Bergen
Life in the Toppserien has been defined by relentless movement. Kaminski has logged 65 flights over 11 months during her first season. The physical toll of travel is now matched by high-stakes competition; she is currently readying her squad for a Europa Cup quarter-final match scheduled for next Wednesday.
Laura Kaminski completes the League and Cup double with SK Brann🏆🏆 https://t.co/CDKtPoom8k
— https://x.com/KathrynBatte/status/2117015120601649154
I knew that when I came to Brann, I was going to coach top-level players. I wanted to be at the top of the competition and I was desperate to win a trophy.
Kaminski Adapts to Norwegian Football’s Pressing Tactics
The transition to Norwegian football demanded a departure from the tactical norms Kaminski encountered in England. She describes the local style as a high-risk, attacking approach built on relentless pressing.
Many congratulations to ex Palace manager Laura Kaminski as her SK Brann side complete a league and cup double 🏆🏆🍾 pic.twitter.com/qljWFY3IS2
— https://x.com/RobNorwood6/status/2117012775998521585
After 15 years in various roles—including assistant positions in the WSL, WSL 2, and a tenure with the England under-19s—Kaminski felt her career had stalled.
There’s only two levels in England that are professional. I definitely wanted to get European exposure, which I was never going to get in England.
Success for English manager Laura Kaminski today as her Norwegian side SK Brann has wrapped up a League and Cup double. 🏆🥳
— https://x.com/em_sandy/status/2116922449451274293
The Coaching Staff
Data reflects a broader struggle for female representation. An October report from UK Coaching revealed a 6% decline in the total number of female coaches in recent years. Today, only three English women manage in the WSL: Jo Potter at Crystal Palace, Amy Merricks at Birmingham City, and Karen Hills at Charlton Athletic.
Kaminski argues that limited pathways persist despite a talent pool capable of managing at the highest levels, including the men’s game. While the move to the Arctic Circle meant time away from family, she views the professional validation of her recent success as essential.
Reflecting on the pressure of the Norwegian league, Kaminski insists the experience has provided fuel for the future.
Worth a look
