Erling Haaland Links Up With Zlatan Ibrahimovic After World Cup Exit

Erling Haaland finally linked up with Zlatan Ibrahimovic after Norway's quarterfinal exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The two strikers, known for their tall stature, goal-scoring prowess, and long locks, have been compared to each other for years.

What happened?

In a post on Zlatan's Instagram, the two towering strikers finally came together face to face. "The power is in the hair," Zlatan wrote. The reunion comes after Haaland's sensational World Cup debut, where he scored seven goals in five appearances. He led Norway to the quarterfinals, but they fell short against England 2-1.

Why it matters for Erling Haaland

Haaland's World Cup performance has been a topic of discussion, with many praising his goal-scoring ability. However, his exit from the tournament has left him with a sense of disappointment. In a post-match interview, Haaland looked at the positives rather than focus on the loss to England. "I think how we put Norway on the map is maybe one thing that touches me the most," Haaland said. "I think with the (viking) row, how good people we are … I think that really touches me, and we put Norway on the map."

What comes next?

Haaland is set to take a vacation before returning to club football. He's still signed under contract with Manchester City in the English Premier League. The reunion with Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a welcome distraction for Haaland, who is looking to bounce back from his World Cup exit. In an appearance on James Corden's After Hours, Haaland revealed that he received a phone call from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and was given some friendly advice. "Zlatan, you know what he told me? 'Never cut your hair because the strength is in the hair,'" Haaland said. "What can I do? I have to listen to him, no?"

Zlatan Ibrahimovic confirmed the story live on air after Norway's win against Ivory Coast in the Round of 32. "I truly believed that when I was playing," Ibrahimovic said. "When things were going well, I had my ponytail. I remember when Haaland showed up on the big stage, we had the same agent, who unfortunately passed away a couple of years ago. I saw him with his long ponytail, and my agent was telling me, 'Listen, I saw Zlatan in him,' and I said, 'You keep that hair because that hair is going to take you where you want to go.'"

Haaland and Zlatan were both represented by Mino Raiola before the agent passed away in April 2022. The reunion between the two strikers is a testament to their bond, which goes beyond their on-field performances.

Norway made a lot of noise in the World Cup, reaching the quarterfinals for the first time in its history. They returned after a 28-year absence, and it seems like they are entering their golden generation. Haaland is set to take a vacation before returning to club football, but the reunion with Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a welcome distraction for the young striker.

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