Erling Haaland is a menace in competitive action and during training, with the Manchester City striker leaving fans in hysterics after being mic’d up for a session alongside his international team-mates. The prolific frontman was put through his paces ahead of a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Israel. Unsurprisingly, the larger-than-life 25-year-old made a point of dominating proceedings and teasing his colleagues.
Haaland goals 2025-26: Remarkable record for club & country
Haaland has taken on added responsibility with Norway during their latest camp, with Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard – who also fills the captain’s armband for his country – missing out through injury. City star Haaland has been given the chance to become an on-field leader.
He embraced that role when netting a hat-trick against Israel, with another match ball being secured despite missing a twice-taken penalty. He registered five efforts in an 11-1 mauling of Moldova back in September and has reached 21 goals for the season through 12 appearances for club and country.
AdvertisementWatch Haaland tease team-mates in Norway trainingWhat Haaland said during mischievous training session
Haaland is playing with a smile on his face, and proved as much when cutting a mischievous figure in training. Andreas Schjelderup was among the first in his sights, with the Benfica midfielder being told: “You're allowed to be up on your toes, Schjelderup. It's allowed.”
As quick-moving rondo drills continued, Haaland broke into a Mancunian accent after seeing a ball fizzed beyond him at head height. He initially asked, with a northern twang, if team-mate Thelo Aasgaard was “f*cking alright” before adding: “Have you been drinking? Have you been drinking? What did you do last night?”
Haaland also took aim at fellow City star Oscar Bobb at one stage, with the 22-year-old winger looking slightly bored as he gazed into the distance. Norway’s No.9 said: “Oscar. Oscar. Oscar, please can't you start running?” More mistakes from those around him led Haaland to say: “Oh my god. It’s so bad now. It makes me unwell.” His words of wisdom included a message about hitting the net. He said: “Most things are not about quality. It's all about mentality. You have to want to score.”
GettyBack at Man City: Haaland released early from Norway squad
Haaland has helped to fire Norway to the brink of qualification for their first World Cup since 1998. Stale Solbakken's squad sit top of their group with two fixtures left to take in during the November international break.
However, he will play no part in a friendly clash with New Zealand on Tuesday having been released from the Norway squad. He has been allowed to head back to England and rest ahead of City’s return to Premier League action at home to Everton on Saturday.