Erling Haaland, Manchester City’s goal-scoring machine, has added a personal milestone to his list of triumphs—he’s about to become a father. The Norwegian striker shared the exciting news after making history on international duty.
Haaland scored twice in Norway’s 3-0 win over Slovenia in the Nations League, breaking his country’s all-time goal-scoring record. His first goal matched Jorgen Juve’s 33-goal tally from the 1920s and 1930s, but with his second strike, Haaland moved ahead with 34 goals in just 36 appearances for Norway.
Following the match, Haaland took to social media to make an even more personal announcement—he and his partner, Isabel Haugseng Johansen, are expecting a child. In a playful post, Haaland shared a photo of himself with a football under his shirt, mimicking a baby bump, while sucking his thumb. The post was simply captioned with a baby emoji and a soon arrow.
Close friend and Norway teammate Sander Berge had known about Haaland’s big news for a while. “I’ve known this forever,” Berge told Norwegian outlet Dagbladet. “I’m really happy for him. It’s great to know he and Isabel are going to be parents. I can’t wait to follow their journey.”
Despite Berge being in the loop, most of the Norway squad found out only after Haaland’s public post. Manager Stale Solbakken took the news in stride, humorously commenting on the growing number of fathers on the national team. “In 25 years, the national team coach will have a bright future ahead with so many potential players!” Solbakken joked.
As for the record-breaking achievement, Haaland was humble yet proud. “Of course, it’s a big and historic moment. I’m happy, and it’s a fantastic record to break,” Haaland told reporters. “But I have many years left. I’m enjoying myself and feeling great on the pitch. It’s been a while since I’ve had this much energy.”
With Norway set to face Austria on Sunday, Haaland, who’s currently captaining the team in the absence of an injured Martin Odegaard, is staying focused. “We must not build up our expectations too much. We have to stay grounded,” he said.
Haaland’s form continues to dazzle on the pitch, but now he’s preparing for a whole new adventure off it.
