Erling Haaland brings wild souvenir back home after returning from World Cup

Rory Robinson, Chiara Fiorillo Tue, July 14, 2026 at 8:43 PM UTC

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Erling Haaland returns to Norway after the World Cup (Image: X @erling)

Erling Haaland's 2026 World Cup journey didn't result in an international trophy or a Golden Boot, but his homecoming to Norway resembled an Oscar-winning production.

Upon deplaning from Norway's team aircraft, Haaland was clutching a taxidermy raccoon reminiscent of the creature from Everything, Everywhere, All at Once.

However, Haaland's demeanor channeled more Ace Ventura: Pet Detective than the 2022 $140 million hit.

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Footage emerged of Haaland's arrival in Oslo, descending the aircraft stairs with his luggage and the stuffed animal.

He allegedly purchased the raccoon at Wild Bill's Western Store in Dallas prior to his World Cup departure.

Haaland brought a unique souvenir back home (Image: Getty)

The quirky keepsake reflected the lighthearted atmosphere of Haaland's American adventure, which simultaneously served as travel content for his 3 million YouTube followers.

The Norwegian striker posted four vlogs throughout the tournament, including "Haaland Taking Over America" and "Norway's Texas Takeover."

The videos collectively garnered 12 million views in under two weeks.

Haaland also quipped about the raccoon on X, posting, "It followed me home."

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Norway was eliminated from the World Cup after losing to England (Image: Getty)

He enlisted his 60 million Instagram followers to help christen his new "companion" through a poll featuring the choices Cowboy, Ranger, TEX, and R. O. W. (Raccoon on Wheels).

Norway advanced to the quarterfinals, secured an upset victory over Brazil in the Round of 16, and witnessed Haaland emerge as one of the tournament's most prominent figures before England eliminated them.

Haaland netted twice against Iraq, twice against Senegal, once against the Ivory Coast, and added two more as Norway pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory over Brazil.

He wrapped up the World Cup with seven goals, no assists, 20 shots, 13 on target, and logged 465 minutes across five starts.

The sole match in which Haaland failed to find the net was the quarterfinal defeat to England, where he featured for 105 minutes. Meanwhile, his social media presence surged dramatically on the back of his goals and viral moments.

Haaland reportedly amassed over 22 million new Instagram followers, with his total climbing from 40 million to more than 60 million.

A staggering 3.3 million of those came within just 24 hours following Norway's victory over Brazil, and more than 400 babies have since been named after him.

Supporters were delighted to see Haaland fully embrace the Texas spirit following Norway's win over the Ivory Coast. He and his teammates tried on cowboy hats and stocked up on Western gear - before a raccoon unexpectedly joined the group.

Manchester City have already kicked off their preseason preparations, with players back at the City Football Academy.

The club has a series of friendlies scheduled against Celtic, AC Milan, Barcelona, and Chelsea.

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Source: “AOL Entertainment”