Erling Haaland's Norway jersey bears the name 'Braut Haaland' instead of his usual one, and the question seeks to understand the reason behind this change.
Manchester City's New Star Embraces Family Roots
Erling Braut Haaland, the highly-touted striker who recently joined Manchester City, has made a personal nod to his upbringing by adopting the name "Braut Haaland" on his Norway jersey. This change, however, is not about image or marketing but a tribute to his mother, Gry Marita Braut, a former Norwegian heptathlon champion.
Haaland's father, Alf Inge Haaland, played football professionally, notably for Manchester City and Nottingham Forest. Interestingly, it was during Alf Inge's stint with Nottingham Forest that his path first crossed with Erling's in England. Later, when Erling was moving from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester City, Alf Inge played a pivotal role, guiding negotiations and passing down his own connection to the club.
Alf Inge Haaland, born in England while his father was at Leeds United, grew up a Manchester City supporter, a bond further cemented when he moved to the club. After retiring from football in 2013, he has worked as Erling's advisor and representative in his major career moves.
The surname "Haaland" comes from Erling's father, while "Braut" is from his mother. This dual naming is in line with Norwegian naming customs, reflecting the importance of family heritage and regional roots in the country. In Norway, surnames often serve as markers of family history.
Erling Haaland grew up in England, a bond further cemented when Alf Inge later moved to Manchester City. This dual identity seems to have influenced Erling's decision to use "Braut Haaland" on his Norway jersey. Among Norwegian supporters, he is nicknamed "Brauten."
On social media, Erling Braut Haaland uses his full name, but at club level, he has always been known as Haaland. At the 2019 Under-20 World Cup, he was registered under his full name. Alf Inge Haaland, known for his grit in midfield, had a career that spanned Bryne in Norway, Nottingham Forest, Leeds United, and Manchester City, before a knee injury cut it short in 2003.
Despite the change on his Norway jersey, Erling Haaland's move to Manchester City has been one of the most anticipated transfers in recent football history. With his father's guidance and his own prodigious talent, Haaland is set to make a significant impact on the Premier League.
