Having won over fans across the globe with his inspirational FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, Norway striker Erling Haaland said the tournament had “changed him as a person” as he reflected on his country’s historic run despite a heartbreaking quarter-final exit to England.
The 25-year-old, who entered the quarter-final against England after scoring seven goals in four straight matches, was finally kept quiet as Jude Bellingham’s brace inspired England to a 2-1 extra-time victory.
Yet, despite the disappointment, Haaland said the experience of leading Norway to its deepest-ever World Cup run had left a lasting impact.
“These things are surreal. I think this has changed me as a person. I think my profile has grown a bit, let’s put it that way,” Haaland said.
“It’s hard to process it all right now when I look back at the games, but it’s incredibly special to be part of something I used to watch from the sidelines and now experience first-hand.”
The Manchester City striker said the campaign had united the nation and created memories that would stay with him forever.
“I feel immense pride, and I’m genuinely moved when I think about how well we performed, the sense of unity back in Norway, and the positivity and joy we’ve felt both there and here.”
Although Norway fell short against England, Haaland believes the team’s performances, including a famous Round of 16 victory over five-time champions Brazil, have changed how the football world views the Scandinavian nation.
“This has been my goal for a long time, and I think after this tournament we’ve put Norway on the map. Now it’s about maintaining those standards.”
“We proved it’s possible to beat one of the biggest teams in the world, Brazil. We lost to England in the end, but we made them fight for it. Maybe it could have gone differently.”
Looking ahead, Haaland believes Norway’s golden generation is only getting started.
“We’ve got more World Cups and Euros ahead of us. I think it’s time for us to really establish ourselves. We’ve got a fantastic generation.”
Asked whether he would now support England in the remainder of the tournament because of his ties to the country and his Manchester City teammates, Haaland admitted his loyalties remain split.
“I’ve got my City teammates here, that’s true. I grew up in England, and the first shirt I ever owned was an England one. It’s a special country. But I have teammates from France and Spain too.”