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When Erling Haaland takes to the pitch, it’s easy to forget he could have lined up in a different shirt altogether. Born in Leeds in 2000, while his father Alf-Inge Haaland was playing in the Premier League, the Manchester City star was technically eligible to represent England.
Over the years, a myth has spread among fans: that Roy Keane’s infamous horror tackle on Alf-Inge Haaland in 2001 somehow “pushed” Erling to reject England. It’s a dramatic story — the idea of a son seeking revenge for his father’s pain. But how much truth is there to it?
The Myth: Keane’s Tackle as a Turning Point
In the heated Manchester derby of April 2001, Keane lunged recklessly at Alf-Inge Haaland, ending his career at the highest level. The brutality of that moment made headlines worldwide. Some believe young Erling, only a toddler at the time, grew up vowing never to represent the country where his father’s career ended in agony.
The Reality: Norway Was Always Home
In truth, Erling Haaland’s decision had nothing to do with Roy Keane. Despite being born in England, Haaland’s family moved back to Bryne, Norway, when he was a child. He grew up there, developed his football, and proudly wore the Norwegian badge from the age of 15.
By the time England fans realised his potential, Haaland had already played through the youth levels and made his senior debut for Norway in 2019. FIFA rules meant there was no going back.
Haaland’s Own Words
Haaland has made his feelings clear:
> “I feel Norwegian, that’s why I play for Norway. It was never really a question.”
No mention of Keane. No mention of revenge. Just a simple truth — his heart belongs to Norway.
Conclusion
The Roy Keane tackle will forever be one of football’s most infamous moments. But Erling Haaland’s choice of national team? That was never about vengeance. It was about home, identity, and loyalty.
England might have dreamed of him leading the line, but in reality, Haaland was always destined for Norway.
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