It would be fair to say that Erling Haaland took the United States by storm during his fantastic run in the 2026 World Cup.
Haaland’s first World Cup yielded seven goals in five games as Norway made it to the quarter-finals before losing to England in Miami.
As if his exploits in front of goal weren’t enough, the 25-year-old’s unique personality and Viking look has seen him become a genuine celebrity in the USA.
Indeed, even Donald Trump was impressed by Haaland during the World Cup, and it seems as if the country has left a lasting impression on the player himself.
So much so, in fact, that Haaland reportedly spent an eye-watering amount of money on souvenirs from the USA.
Haaland ‘spends $10k’ on cowboy souvenirs after time in the US
According to TMZ, Haaland footed the bill for some of his Norway teammates after they paid a visit to Wild Bill’s Western Store in Dallas.
A manager at the store revealed that four Norway players visited the shop for a private spree, all of which was covered by the Manchester City forward.
The quartet are said to have shopped for around 90 minutes, with purchases including cowboy hats, western shirts and belt buckles.
Following his country’s World Cup exit, Haaland was seen with a taxidermy raccoon when landing back in Norway.
According to the report, that particular item cost $750. It’s said that the striker also purchased two taxidermy squirrels holding different items at a cost of $450 each.
The United States certainly embraced Haaland and the reverse is true.
Haaland has reflected on what an emotional journey it was for a country who hadn’t qualified for a World Cup since 1998 and to say he made his mark on the grandest stage would clearly be an understatement.
Read more:
Erling Haaland has unexpected impact on newborn babies in Peru after World Cup fame
CBS Mornings reporter tried Erling Haaland’s 6,000 calorie ‘Viking’ diet and it didn’t go well
Erling Haaland sends ’emotional’ message to new USA fans after World Cup exit
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