Erling Haaland, the Norwegian striker for Manchester City, has gained attention not just for his impressive goalscoring ability but also for his unique mentality toward the game. One of his defining characteristics is his refusal to wear gloves while playing, a decision rooted in his upbringing.
The Influence of Alfie Haaland
Haaland attributes his “old school” approach to his father, Alfie Haaland. Alfie, a former Manchester City player, has been a significant influence in Erling’s life, both as a parent and a mentor. He imposed a rule that if Erling wore gloves, he would face consequences.
- Father’s Advice: Alfie Haaland played 47 matches for Manchester City between 2000 and 2003.
- Career Influence: Alfie dreamed of Erling becoming a professional golfer but ultimately supported his son’s football career.
The Old School Mentality
In a recent interview on the podcast “The Rest is Football,” Haaland expressed his love for the oldschool aspects of football, including tackling and relentless running. He humorously pointed out that the prospect of his father’s disapproval motivates him to avoid gloves at all costs.
“I like the old school kind of, you know, the charming thing of running, tackling,” Haaland stated. “You never see me playing with gloves. It’s because my father would hit me if I did.” This sentiment highlights how deeply personal values influence his professional choices.
Haaland’s Impressive Statistics
Since joining Manchester City in 2022 from Borussia Dortmund, Haaland has made an impressive mark in the Premier League. He scored an astonishing 100 goals in just 111 matches, showcasing his exceptional skills as a forward.
A Passion for Football
Haaland’s dedication to football goes beyond the pitch. Describing himself as a fan of the sport, he revealed his obsession with watching various games. This passion sometimes frustrates his girlfriend, who wishes for more variety in their viewing choices.
“We were eating dinner, and I checked if there were any games,” he shared, illustrating his commitment to staying connected to the sport he loves. “My missus said, I’m so sick of football, we watch it all the time.” Despite these playful tensions at home, Haaland’s focus on football continues to yield impressive results on the field.
In summary, Erling Haaland’s refusal to wear gloves is not just a personal choice but a reflection of his upbringing and dedication to the sport. His remarkable goalscoring record and unwavering obsession with football make him a prominent figure in the Premier League and a role model for aspiring athletes.