Erling Haaland World Cup history and 2026 prospects
Erling Haaland arrives at the 2026 World Cup as one of Norway's rising stars. First World Cup if Norway qualifies.
The 2026 tournament will be a major opportunity for Erling Haaland on the international stage. Playing for Norway in a generation looking to make a mark, Erling Haaland carries weight in both the dressing room and on the pitch.
Club form heading in
Erling Haaland plays for Manchester City domestically. Club performance through 2025–26 sets the tone for international call-ups, with coaches looking for match rhythm, minutes, and goal involvements (forwards) or chance creation (midfielders/wingers).
Position outlook
As a forward, Erling Haaland's job at the World Cup will be finishing chances created by others, holding up play under pressure, and pressing the opposition back four.
What to watch
- Pre-tournament friendlies (May–June 2026) where Erling Haaland will likely play.
- Final 26-player squad announcement (early June 2026).
- Norway's first group-stage match — usually indicative of the coach's first XI.
Bottom line
First World Cup if Norway qualifies. Watch the build-up window closely.