When Manchester City signed Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund, they knew they were getting one of the most exciting young players in the world. But what they may not have realized is that they were also getting a marketable brand. Erling Haaland has quickly established himself as a global soccer superstar, and his off-field success is just as impressive as his on-field prowess. In a recent interview, Haaland’s teammate affirmed his presence as a ’brand,’ and his impact on the club.
Haaland’s exceptional performance for Manchester City has piqued the attention of many and has put him in contention for the Ballon d’Or. But, it’s his off-field charisma that delights his 33-year-old teammate.
Erling Haaland labeled as a ‘brand’
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As Manchester City gears up for a big showdown against Manchester United, City’s star full-back and England international Kyle Walker sat down for a candid interview with Sky Sports. Walker provided the fans with a unique insight into the enigmatic persona of Erling Haaland.
The seasoned full-back has lauded the 23-year-old striker as a “brand” in the soccer world, a testament to the larger-than-life presence the Norwegian has cultivated beyond the boundaries of the pitch.
When questioned about Haaland’s personality off the pitch, Walker stated, “He’s a good laugh. He’s a superstar and in the nicest way possible. He knows that really but he’s not arrogant with that. To be fair you know he’s a brand in football now. He can do that, and I’ll keep letting him do that as long as he’s playing football and scoring the goals. Hopefully, he’ll put us one step closer and getting to that important stage in the Champions League.”
This charisma noted by Kyle Walker, is what makes Erling Haaland a brand in the soccer world, and he applauds his teammate’s ability to maintain such an image while consistently performing at the highest level.
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The Englishman’s response paints a picture of Erling Haaland that extends beyond his goal-scoring prowess. It will be interesting to see how well Haaland responds in the Manchester derby.
As the soccer community prepares for the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris on October 30th, Walker also delivered his support for the Norwegian star striker, who faces stiff competition from Lionel Messi.
Walker endorses Haaland for the Ballon d’Or
Kyle Walker acknowledges that while Lionel Messi had a stellar season with Argentina, Haaland’s record-breaking performance and Manchester City’s treble win have made him a strong candidate for the coveted award. “I’d say him, I think. You know, It’s probably a tossup between him and Messi but, I just feel with the records that he set last year incredible amount of goals scored, and then for us to go on and win the treble. I think it’s a toss of a coin but I’d have to go with Erling just for the club’s side of it.”
As the Ballon d’Or ceremony is just around the corner, and whether it’s Haaland or Messi who takes the coveted title, one thing is certain – Erling Haaland has already made an indelible mark as a brand and an exceptional talent.
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