Haaland: Now I hope my City team mates go on to win the World Cup | OneFootball

Erling Haaland says he's now hoping one or more of his Manchester City team-mates can go on to win the 2026 World Cup in the wake of Norway’s exit from the tournament.

Men's Team

England quartet reach World Cup semi-final as Haaland’s Norway exit

Haaland and Co saw a memorable 2026 World Cup finals adventure finally end in Saturday evening’s dramatic 2-1 quarter-final defeat to England after extra time in Miami.

Though the result in a baking Florida meant Haaland’s World Cup campaign is now over, several of his City colleagues still harbour genuine hopes of being crowned world champions.

As well as the England quartet of Marc Guéhi, Nico O’Reilly, James Trafford and Elliot Anderson, Rayan Cherki (France) and Rodri (Spain) are also through to the last four with their respective countries.

BUY YOUR HAALAND #9 HOME SHIRT HERE

European champions Spain take on France in Tuesday’s first mouth-watering semi-final in Dallas (KO 20.00 UK) before England then lock horns with defending world champions Argentina on Wednesday in Atlanta (KO 20.00 UK).

And looking ahead to the semi-finals and beyond, Haaland said he hoped to see at least some of his Etihad teammates go on to secure World Cup glory.

“Yeah, why not - I have a few City lads in England, in France and with Spain,” Haaland pointed out.

Men's Team

Monga signs for City

“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!

“How does it feel to be Erling Haaland after being in the quarter final with Norway and going straight to holiday? I would say it’s quite nice.

“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 this last six weeks.

“It’s been so much impression and so much feelings. Now I’m just ready for a holiday.”

Watch video for free with a Cityzens account

Register Sign in

Loading your video

Men's Team

Coaching team to work with new City boss Maresca confirmed

Reflecting on what has been a memorable month in North America where he scored seven goals in helping his country reach the last eight, Haaland said he was full of pride.

And the City striker believes the thrilling example set by him and his team-mates would help 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 in what was their first appearance in 28 years.

“The performances are one thing; beating Brazil is one thing - but I think the way Norway has been put on the map is one that maybe touches me the most.

“I think with the [Viking] row [from the Norwegian fans], with how good people we are – and we are good people – I think that really touches me.

“So yes, we put Norway on the map and hopefully now we can establish something when it comes to the Euros, World Cups and everything because our generation is amazing.

Watch video for free with a Cityzens account

Register Sign in

Loading your video

Men's Team

City sign goalkeeper Charles

“And also, I hope this gives motivation to young people back in Norway that’s it’s possible to play on the biggest stage in the world with a Norway t-shirt on.

“I think this changes Norway and I think it changes me.

“We’re building something in Norway, and I think it’s already built.

“I think we are there now and it’s about maintaining this because we have shown that it’s possible to beat one of the biggest football nations in the world in Brazil

“Of course, we have lost to England now, but we gave then a good fight and with some decisions it could have been different.

“In the end I’m just proud. I’ve been so proud every single day now since we qualified and got here in the United States.”