Erling Haaland is already versed in the Manchester United rivalry – and tells FFT that he's been in the blue corner since his time in Norway
(Image credit: Tom Flathers/Manchester City FC via Getty Images)
Erling Haaland is already an enemy of Manchester United fans – but he says he's been having a pop at Red Devils supporters ever since he lived in Norway.
FourFourTwo sat down with the Manchester City striker for an exclusive chat about his ambitions for the future and his journey thus far, with Haaland telling us all about how he grew up as a Citizen. Erling's father, Alfie, played for the club, with City referencing the fact in his announcement video on social media.
It seems as if despite growing up in Scandinavia, the dislike of City's rivals is something that Haaland has inherited, too.
“Jadon Sancho and I had a great connection on and off the pitch at Dortmund,” he told FFT – but refused to say the words, “Manchester United”, adding, “He plays for the other lot now though, so maybe we’ll have to meet in secret!”
Haaland actually took aim at United when he was unveiled at City in front of huge crowds. When asked which team he was most looking forward to playing, the forward shrugged and smiled, before responding, “Look, I don't like to say the words… but Manchester United.”
The Norwegian had previously been linked to the red side of Manchester, with Haaland's Molde boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer interested in bringing his former protege to Old Trafford with him. The new City star actually turned down Solskjaer and the Red Devils for Borussia Dortmund, however, before eventually moving to Manchester this summer from Germany.
“Look, it’s all about banter and I enjoy that. I’ve already met some United supporters here in the city, and we’re always joking with each other. It’s about not taking everything too seriously.
Get FourFourTwo Newsletter
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.
(Image credit: Future)
“There are a lot of United fans in my home town in Norway, so I’ve always had to have a go at them. I’m used to this and I love it. Don’t take things too seriously.
“I want to be able to talk a bit like the fans, otherwise it gets a bit boring, doesn’t it?”
Manchester City host their neighbours at the Etihad Stadium on October 2.
Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.
