Why did Erling Haaland Leave Dortmund? Check the Details Here
by Aishwarya R | Updated May 31, 2023
Who is Erling Haaland?
Erling Braut Haaland, a force to be reckoned with, graces the football world with his extraordinary talent. As a striker for Manchester City and the Norwegian national team, he possesses unmatched speed, strength, positioning, and a remarkable ability to find the back of the net. Haaland's prowess has earned him the title of one of the best players in the world.
Starting his journey in the youth system, Haaland honed his skills at Bryne and later made his mark at Molde. It was in Austria, with Red Bull Salzburg, where he truly shone, clinching league titles and a domestic cup. In 2019, Haaland's journey led him to the Bundesliga, donning the colors of Borussia Dortmund. He secured the prestigious DFB-Pokal in the 2020-21 season, leaving a lasting impact.
In the summer of 2022, Haaland embarked on a new chapter as he joined Manchester City. The Premier League witnessed his dominance as he powered his way to the top, setting records ablaze. Scoring an astounding 36 goals in a single season, he etched his name in history as the league's all-time leading scorer.
His debut campaign crowned him the Premier League champion, and he was honored as Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season, a feat unprecedented. Haaland's achievements extend beyond club success. His awe-inspiring performances in the UEFA Champions League showcased his brilliance, becoming the first teenager to score in five consecutive matches.
He claimed the Golden Boy award in 2020 and continues to amaze, earning recognition in the FIFA FIFPro World11. Representing Norway, Haaland's impact reverberated on the international stage as well. His goal-scoring prowess propelled him to win the Golden Boot at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, a remarkable achievement with a record-breaking nine goals in a single match. He has since become a crucial figure in the senior national team.
Erling Haaland's name will forever be etched in the annals of football history. His passion, skill, and determination have captivated fans worldwide, setting new standards and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. As the world watches in awe, Haaland's journey continues to unfold, promising even more unforgettable moments on the grand stage.
Why did Erling Haaland Leave Dortmund?
Erling Haaland's departure from Borussia Dortmund can be attributed to a combination of factors. While his performance on the field was undeniably outstanding, with an incredible 86 goals in 89 appearances, there were concerns about his growing influence off the pitch. This led to the belief that it was the right time to sell him for £51 million ($63m), according to Dortmund's sporting director, Sebastian Kehl.
Kehl expressed that Haaland's presence had become a distraction for both the club and the dressing room. The Norwegian striker's popularity and individual success seemed to overshadow the team as a whole. Kehl stated, "In the end, the matter had definitely become a burden, both in the dressing room and for the club. In general, for the whole environment, it was just him."
The timing of Haaland's sale was seen as appropriate for both Dortmund and Manchester City, who acquired the player. Dortmund was able to move on from the distractions caused by Haaland's presence, while City gained a talented striker who has been in exceptional form since joining them. Haaland has already netted 12 goals in seven matches across all competitions for his new club.
Dortmund, despite missing Haaland, has shown resilience and adapted well to life without him. They have made a strong start in the Bundesliga, winning four out of their first five matches. Additionally, they secured a comfortable 3-0 victory against FC Copenhagen in the midweek Champions League competition. Looking ahead, Dortmund is preparing to face RB Leipzig in an upcoming match.
Although they are without Sebastian Haller, who was signed as a replacement for Haaland and is currently recovering from testicular cancer, the team has displayed a promising ability to thrive despite challenges. Haaland left Dortmund due to concerns about his growing influence becoming a burden for the club. The timing of his sale was deemed appropriate for both Dortmund and Manchester City, with Haaland excelling at his new club while Dortmund continues to perform well without him.
Erling Haaland Early Life
Erling Haaland, the football prodigy, was born on 21 July 2000 in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. His father, Alf-Inge Haaland, was a player for Leeds United in the prestigious Premier League at that time. However, when Erling was just three years old, the family relocated to Bryne, a town in Norway where his parents hailed from.
From a tender age, Haaland showcased his love for sports. Alongside football, he dabbled in various other disciplines such as handball, golf, and track and field. His athletic abilities were evident even as a child, as he reportedly set a world record in the standing long jump for his age category. In 2006, at the age of five, he leaped an impressive distance of 1.63 meters, leaving an indelible mark on the record books.
Erling Haaland's journey began with humble roots, nurtured by a family that understood the essence of athletic pursuits. From his early years in England to his upbringing in Norway, his passion for sports and his innate talent laid the foundation for a remarkable career that continues to captivate the footballing world.
Erling Haaland Girlfriend
Love is in the air for Erling Haaland and his girlfriend, Isabel Haugseng Johansen! The young couple was spotted in London's West End, enjoying a romantic outing earlier this year. Although they are rarely seen together, there's a delightful reason behind it—Isabel is a talented footballer herself!
Their story began at a local team called Bryne when Haaland was just five years old. Little did he know that this was where he would meet his future love. Over the years, as Haaland's footballing journey took him to Molde, RB Salzburg, Borussia Dortmund, and eventually Manchester City, he and Isabel grew up together at Bryne's academy. It's believed that their relationship blossomed during his time at Dortmund.
According to sources, their connection is undeniably strong, and their relationship seems to be quite serious. Isabel, with her striking beauty, is well-known in their hometown of Bryne. The familiarity and trust they have built over the years have played a significant role in their bond.
While Haaland's rising stardom attracts attention from women around the world, he has chosen a down-to-earth path. It's clear that he values trust and stability, and having Isabel by his side allows him to focus on his football career without distractions.
The couple recently enjoyed a lovely vacation together in Haaland's villa in sunny Marbella during the World Cup break. They have also been seen sharing romantic moments at upscale establishments like The Ivy, a fancy Manchester restaurant. Most recently, they celebrated Haaland's new £20 million contract with Nike by embarking on a delightful shopping trip on Oxford Street.
Erling Haaland and Isabel Haugseng Johansen's love story is one that warms the heart. From their humble beginnings at Bryne to their exciting adventures together, their connection remains strong. As they navigate their respective football journeys, their unwavering support for each other makes them a truly lovable couple.
Erling Haaland Stats
Senior career:
2015–2016
Bryne 2
14
(18)
2016–2017
Bryne
16
(0)
2017
Molde 2
4
(2)
2017–2019
Molde
39
(14)
2019–2020
Red Bull Salzburg
16
(17)
2020–2022
Borussia Dortmund
67
(62)
2022–
Manchester City
35
(36)
Years
Team
Appearance
Goals
International career:
2015
Norway U15
4
(4)
2016
Norway U16
17
(1)
2017
Norway U17
5
(2)
2017
Norway U18
6
(6)
2018
Norway U19
6
(6)
2019
Norway U20
5
(11)
2018
Norway U21
3
(0)
2019–
Norway
23
(21)
Years
Team
Appearance
Goals
Why did Erling Haaland Leave Dortmund - FAQs
Erling Haaland was born on July 21, 2000, making him currently 22 years old.
Haaland began his senior career at Bryne before moving to Molde in 2017. He later played for Red Bull Salzburg, Borussia Dortmund, and currently plays for Manchester City.
Haaland has achieved several notable milestones, including winning the Golden Boy award in 2020, being the top scorer in the UEFA Champions League for the 2020-21 season, and breaking various records in the Premier League, such as scoring the most goals in a single season.
Erling Haaland primarily plays as a striker. His speed, strength, and exceptional finishing ability inside the box have made him one of the most formidable goal-scorers in world football.
Yes, Erling Haaland has represented Norway at the international level. He made his senior international debut in September 2019 and has since scored numerous goals for the national team.