Erling Haaland was granted early release by the Norway squad to rejoin Manchester City before their Premier League clash with Everton, after shining with a hat-trick versus Israel.
Manchester City star Erling Haaland received permission from the Norwegian Football Federation to leave the training camp early, ahead of Norway's friendly match against New Zealand later this week. This decision gives Man City relief as their key striker returns in time to prepare for the crucial Premier League game against Everton.
Earlier, Haaland delivered a spectacular performance in Norway's 5-0 victory over Israel. Despite missing two penalties early on, the 25-year-old striker scored a hat-trick, bringing his national team tally to 51 goals in just 46 appearances. This outstanding form further confirms Haaland's status this season, having netted 21 goals for both club and country.
According to the Norwegian Football Federation, several players with tight schedules were allowed to return to their clubs early, including Alexander Sørloth, Julian Ryerson, Fredrik Bjørkan, and Erling Braut Haaland. Additionally, young midfielder Sverre Nypan—who is contracted to Man City—was called up to the national team for the first time and may debut in the match against New Zealand in Oslo.
Eighteen-year-old Sverre Nypan joined Man City from Rosenborg for £12.5 million in the summer and is currently on loan at Middlesbrough. He has impressed by regularly featuring in the starting lineup and recently captained Norway's U21 team.
Meanwhile, former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher praised Haaland highly, calling the Norwegian striker “the greatest goalscorer ever to play in England.” Carragher shared on Sky Sports: “I believe we are witnessing the best striker in the history of English football. Before Haaland, Man City had Sergio Aguero, but this is a completely different level. He is the best.”
With rest and an early return to Manchester, will Haaland continue his devastating form to help Man City compete for the Premier League title?