Manchester City striker, Erling Haaland, has been released from the Norway camp in preparation for the friendly match against New Zealand. The Norwegian Football Association confirmed this development in a recent statement.
Haaland had an impressive performance over the weekend as Norway faced Israel in a 2026 World Cup qualifier at Ullevaal Stadion, Oslo. The Manchester City striker was on fire, scoring a hat-trick that significantly contributed to Norway's resounding 5-0 victory. The remaining two goals were own goals by Israel's Anan Khalaili and Idan Nachmias.
This victory places Staale Solbakken's team at the top of their table with a six-point lead over Italy.
Preparing for New Zealand without Haaland
Norway is set to return to action on Tuesday with a friendly match against New Zealand. This game will also take place at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo. However, it has been confirmed that Haaland will not be participating after being released from the camp along with four other players.
Norwegian Football Association released a statement:
"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."
Promising start for Haaland
Haaland has had an excellent start to his 25/26 Premier League season so far. He has scored nine goals across seven matches which have helped Manchester City secure their current fifth position on the table.
The club is set to return into action this weekend as they face Everton at the Etihad Stadium. With Haaland's early exit from the Norway camp, fans will be eagerly waiting to see if this move will translate into a refreshed and even more potent performance in the upcoming Premier League match.
While Haaland's absence may be felt in Norway's friendly against New Zealand, his return to Manchester City could potentially boost their performance in the Premier League. As always, sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts will be keeping a close eye on these developments.
