Haaland becomes Norway's all‑time leading scorer as City prepare for new season

Erling Braut Haaland became Norway’s all‑time leading goal scorer in October 2024. He has been a Manchester City player since July 2022 and has represented Norway at senior level since 2019, during which time he amassed enough goals to surpass all predecessors. His father, Alfie Haaland, earned 34 caps for Norway before retiring. The milestone arrives as Manchester City gear up for the upcoming season under manager Enzo Maresca, who has highlighted Haaland’s influence on the squad’s leadership plans.

Haaland breaks Norway goal record

Erling Haaland became Norway’s all‑time record goal scorer by October 2024, surpassing previous marks with his prolific strike rate for the national team.

Haaland made his senior debut for Norway in 2019 and has since added 34 caps, scoring enough goals to eclipse the former record holder during that span. His club success includes winning the Austrian league and cup with Red Bull Salzburg in 2019, earning the 2019 Austrian Footballer of the Year award and later joining Manchester City in July 2022. The striker’s speed, strength and finishing have made him one of the world’s leading forwards and the greatest Norwegian player of all time. His achievements have been highlighted by multiple Guinness World Records and frequent appearances on global media outlets. He is also the son of former Norway international Alfie Haaland, who earned 34 caps for Norway.

Club career and recent triumphs

Erling Haaland joined Manchester City in July 2022 after a standout season with Red Bull Salzburg. The Norwegian striker helped Salzburg capture the Austrian league title and domestic cup in 2019, a campaign that earned him the Austrian Footballer of the Year award. His move to England followed a two‑year spell in which he established himself as one of the most prolific goal‑scorers in Scandinavia. Haaland’s arrival added a new dimension to City’s attack, complementing a squad already packed with talent. His early impact has been closely watched as the club prepares for the upcoming season, with the player already training alongside his new teammates.

Family background and early influences

Alfie Haaland earned 34 caps for Norway as a defender or midfielder, giving Erling a direct line to international football and a model of professionalism. Growing up, Erling watched his father train and play, internalising the discipline and tactical awareness that underpin his own game. The blend of Alfie’s defensive intelligence and Erling’s forward instinct created a unique development environment, while the family’s deep ties to Norwegian sport provided early exposure to elite competition. This heritage forged the work ethic and confidence that have propelled Erling to become Norway’s all‑time leading scorer.

Leadership role at Manchester City

Enzo Maresca has said that Erling Haaland is one of the players he considers a leader for the coming season. The manager pointed to Haaland’s goal record as a major factor behind Ruben Dias’ push for the captaincy, noting that Haaland’s influence extends beyond scoring. Maresca confirmed that Haaland will join the club’s leadership group alongside other senior figures. This acknowledgment comes as Manchester City prepare for the new campaign following a 3‑0 loss to Arsenal in the Community Shield under Maresca’s guidance. The club’s hierarchy now includes Haaland among its on‑field decision makers.

Frequently asked questions