Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Erling Haaland, Manchester City, Norway, Football
Marcus Chan
Erling Haaland has broken his silence after being released from the Norway camp.
Last weekend, Haaland continued his fine form as he netted a hat-trick in Norway's 5-0 win over Israel. The other two strikes were own goals scored by Israel's Anan Khalaili and Idan Nachmias.
On Tuesday evening, Staale Solbakken's men are set to return to action with a friendly match against New Zealand, taking place at the Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo.
However, it was confirmed on Monday morning that Haaland will not take part, having been sent home along with four other players.
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A statement from the Norwegian Football Association read: "Sebastian Sebulonsen is in the Norwegian national team squad, he and Sverre Nypan are participating in today's training.
"Players with particularly tight match schedules are returning home: Alexander Sorloth, Julian Ryerson, Erling Braut Haaland and Fredrik Bjorkan. Felix Horn Myhre is leaving the squad due to a sore ankle."
On Monday evening, Haaland took to social media as he posted a series of pictures on his official Instagram page, with a caption that simply says: "Golf!"
Winning against Israel meant that Norway are on the brink of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup as they currently sit top of their group.
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When asked about potentially playing in the World Cup next summer, Haaland said: "I don’t think I’ll say too much about that (World Cup chances). I’m just focused on winning the next match. That was my mindset in the last game, and it still is now."
Meanwhile, Haaland will be back in action this weekend when Manchester City, who currently sit fifth in the Premier League table, take on Everton at the Etihad Stadium.
Speaking recently about his current form, the 25-year-old said: "I think it's about preparation, first of all. Getting ready for the games. I spoke so many times about it before, you can be physically ready, but you need to be mentally ready as well. To be honest, I think with a kid, it makes me even better, because I actually disconnect more than ever."