At just 24 years old, Erling Braut Haaland has already taken the football world by storm. His goal-scoring feats are rewriting Premier League history, and he’s on track to become one of the greatest strikers the game has ever seen.
From his blistering pace to his unmatched precision in front of goal, Haaland’s rise is nothing short of extraordinary.
Where the Journey Began
Born on July 21, 2000, in Leeds, England, Haaland’s footballing roots run deep. His father, Alf-Inge Haaland, was a Premier League midfielder who played for Leeds United and Manchester City.
However, Alf-Inge’s career was cut short by injury, and the family returned to Norway when Erling was just three.
It didn’t take long for Erling to showcase his own talent. Joining Bryne FK at age five, he quickly outshone his peers, earning a place in the club’s first team by the time he was 15.
Rapid Rise: From Bryne to Borussia Dortmund
After a successful stint at Bryne, Haaland moved to Molde FK in 2017, where he refined his skills under coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. His impressive performances led to a move to Red Bull Salzburg in 2018, where he exploded onto the European scene, scoring eight goals in his first six Champions League matches.
This caught the attention of Borussia Dortmund, who signed him in December 2019. Haaland continued to break records, netting 13 goals in his first 15 Bundesliga appearances and finishing as the top scorer in the 2020/21 Champions League.
Dominating the Premier League with Manchester City
In 2022, Haaland made his much-anticipated move to Manchester City for £51 million. He wasted no time making an impact, setting a Premier League record with 36 goals in his debut season. As of the 2024/25 campaign, he’s already netted nine goals in four matches, an unprecedented start.
His ability to turn games around, like his recent brace against Brentford, has left defenders across the league scrambling for answers. Haaland’s unmatched eye for goal sets him well on his way to securing a third consecutive Golden Boot.
International Career and Future Ambitions
Haaland’s international career with Norway is equally impressive, with 32 goals in 35 appearances. Despite occasional criticism, as seen during Norway’s match against Kazakhstan, he continues to prove his doubters wrong. Just days after the criticism, he scored the winning goal against Austria.
Off the pitch, Haaland’s dedication is clear. He maintains a disciplined lifestyle and a passion for meditation, constantly focusing on improving every aspect of his game. His “zen” goal celebration reflects his calm and composed mindset, even in high-pressure situations.
A Future Football Legend
Haaland has already packed his career with accolades, and at just 24, he’s only starting. His combination of physicality, speed, and lethal finishing makes him a nightmare for defenders and a dream for Manchester City fans. Haaland continues to break records, cementing his legacy as one of football’s greatest talents.