Erling Haaland flaunts shirtless yacht party in Sicily ahead of Man City return

Erling Haaland turned heads on July 16 during a shirtless yacht party off Sicily’s coast. The Manchester City striker spent the day cruising with Norway teammate Sander Berge, hitting golf balls off the upper deck before racing jet skis in matching life jackets and helmets.

What happened on the yacht?

Haaland and Berge turned the yacht’s top deck into a driving range, firing golf balls into the sea before swapping clubs for jet skis. The outing doubled as a birthday celebration for Haaland’s partner, Isabel Haugseng Johansen, whose 22nd arrived the day before. “Happy Birthday” banners draped the boat as the couple marked the milestone with their young son, born in December 2024.

Why the shirtless stunt?

Haaland’s bare-chested photoshoot on the luxury vessel drew immediate attention, showcasing the striker’s off-season fitness. The Norwegian, 25, has spent his break mixing relaxation with lighthearted fun, blending high-energy activities with low-key celebrations. His jet-ski laps came just hours after he stepped off a flight from Dallas, where he’d picked up an unusual souvenir.

How did Texas enter the summer break?

Before Sicily, Haaland swung through Dallas for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Norway. At Wild Bill’s Western Store, he snapped up a taxidermy raccoon named Rickie-complete with an empty liquor bottle-dubbing it “It followed me home.” The post on X went viral, prompting the TSA to joke about flying with the critter. The store’s owner, Julie Newport, told *The Athletic* that orders spiked after Haaland’s visit, forcing them to launch international shipping for the first time.

What’s next for Haaland?

The 25-year-old is set to return to Manchester City’s preseason grind later this month. His club faces a packed schedule as the Premier League looms, with Haaland’s summer jaunts giving fans a glimpse of the star’s off-field personality. The yacht jaunt and Texas detour underscore a rare break from the pitch-one that’s already left a mark far beyond the pitch.