​Erling Haaland says he now hopes one or more of his Manchester City teammates can go on to win the 2026 World Cup, following Norway’s exit from the tournament. The Manchester City striker and his colleagues endured a dramatic run at the 2026 World Cup finals, which ended with a 2-1 extra-time defeat to England in Saturday night’s quarter-final in Miami. Although Haaland’s own World Cup journey is over, a number of his City teammates still harbour genuine ambitions of lifting the trophy.
In addition to England’s quartet of Marc Guéhi, Nico O’Reilly, James Trafford and Elliot Anderson, players like Rayan Cherki for France and Rodri for Spain have also reached the semi-finals with their respective nations. Spain take on France in the first semi-final in Dallas on Tuesday (kick-off 20:00 UK time), before England meet defending champions Argentina on Wednesday in Atlanta (also 20:00 UK time).
Looking ahead to the semi-finals and beyond, Haaland said he would love to see at least some of his Etihad teammates go on to enjoy World Cup glory. “Yeah, why not — I have a few City lads in England, in France and with Spain,” Haaland noted. “Of course, I want England to do well — I think I got an England jersey before a Norway jersey when I was young. So, of course, I want England to do well because it’s a nice country and a nice T-shirt. But for me now I’m just looking forward to a break.”
Asked what it feels like to be Erling Haaland after exiting the quarter-finals with Norway and heading straight into holiday mode, he admitted it was a fairly pleasant transition. “It’s quite nice,” he said. “I’m quite happy with my life. I’m enjoying it. I’m in a good place. It’s kind of difficult to take in this show or roller coaster we have been on these last six weeks. There’s been so much impression and so many feelings. Now I’m just ready for a holiday.”
Reflecting on what has been a memorable month in North America, during which he scored seven goals to help Norway reach the last eight, Haaland spoke with pride. He felt the experience showed not only the team’s abilities but also the effect they could have beyond the tournament. The City striker believes the thrilling example set by him and his teammates could inspire the next generation of aspiring Norwegian players.
“I think it has been unreal, honestly,” Haaland said as he looked back on Norway’s remarkable World Cup progression, especially given it was their first appearance in 28 years. “The performances are one thing; beating Brazil is another — but the way Norway has been put on the map is something that perhaps touches me the most. I think with the Viking row from the Norwegian fans and with how good people we are — and we are good people — I think that really touches me. We’ve put Norway on the map, and hopefully now we can establish something when it comes to the Euros.”