Three things Erling Haaland did at the Bernabeu that hint at his desire to play for Real Madrid | OneFootball

On a dramatic Wednesday night at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Manchester City came from behind to beat Real Madrid 2-1 in a pivotal Champions League clash, one subplot captured as much attention as the football itself.

It was none other than Erling Haaland’s very evident admiration for Real Madrid and the Bernabeu stage. 

City’s victory, sealed by Haaland’s penalty, his first ever goal at the historic Bernabeu, was not the only headline. 

As such, his behaviour before, during and after the match provided football purists and Madridistas with food for thought about his future ambitions.

Here are three standout moments from that unforgettable night which underline why the Norwegian striker seems to be signalling Real Madrid as a destination he dreams of playing for someday.

Admiration for Santiago Bernabeu

Right after the final whistle, Haaland did not rush back to the tunnel or celebrate wildly with his teammates. 

Erling Haaland did not celebrate against Real Madrid. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Instead, he soaked in the Bernabeu atmosphere – one that has been the centrepiece of so many legendary careers.

In his post-game comments, he made his feelings abundantly clear about the iconic ground:

“The Bernabeu is a place you want to play in. Look at all this! It’s incredible,” he said while gazing at Real Madrid’s home.

Notably, this was more than a compliment about the stadium’s aura, as it was a heartfelt reflection from a global superstar about an arena that defines elite football. 

For years, Santiago Bernabeu has been the stage where careers are immortalised, and it is rare for an opposition striker, that too of Haaland’s stature, to speak with such reverence.

Pre-match warmth with Real Madrid players

Before the ball was even kicked, a curious scene unfolded in the tunnel that hinted at Haaland’s deeper respect and perhaps admiration for Real Madrid’s squad, particularly their attacking talents.

Haaland approached every Real Madrid player to shake hands in a gesture of sportsmanship. But it was his interaction with the club’s cutting edge that turned heads. 

He shared warm greetings and tight embraces with Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo, arguably the very players Real Madrid is building its future around.

For what it is worth, it was a moment that went beyond pre-game etiquette, a sign of genuine respect, and perhaps even fondness, towards players he could conceivably share a pitch with in the future.

On-pitch camaraderie

If pre- and post-match gestures were not telling enough, Haaland’s behaviour during the contest emphasised something unexpected.

Known for his fierce competitive streak and ruthless focus on the pitch, Haaland usually plays every duel like a battle. 

Yet on Wednesday, he was seen engaging in light-hearted moments with opponents. In fact, he shared friendly exchanges with Thibaut Courtois on multiple occasions.

In another light-hearted moment, Bellingham playfully tugged at Haaland’s hair before he stepped up to take a penalty. 

While many considered it an act of unsportsmanship, it was nothing but a friendly banter between two former teammates.

Furthermore, Haaland was also spotted laughing and engaging with Arda Guler, even just before a corner kick. 

Usually, such set-piece situations see him locked in intense concentration, not smiling with opponents.

Whether it was respect for the Bernabeu, admiration for the Madrid squad, or simply the mindset of a player already imagining a future at Real Madrid, Haaland’s behaviour offered some hope.

With transfer rumours rife, his actions added fuel to the fire.