Norwegian striker Erling Haaland spoke ahead of the crucial quarterfinal match against England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match in Miami will be Haaland's 64th official game since August 1.
Haaland told the press, "This is perhaps the most important match of my life. I said the same thing before the Brazil game, and the Champions League final was also huge, but right now it's more important than anything we've done here."
For the star player, born in Leeds, England, and wearing the Manchester City shirt, this matchup holds special emotional significance. Haaland has already scored 7 goals in 4 matches in the tournament, matching Norway's total goals from their entire World Cup history (7 goals in 8 matches).
Special rest program in place
Behind this top-level performance is a special program prepared by Norway head coach Stale Solbakken and Manchester City's medical team. The physical and mental preparation plan, implemented before the team traveled to the US on June 2, helped the player navigate the intense 11-month season without injury.
Haaland emphasized the importance of mental freshness, saying, "In a season of about 66 matches, rest is a basic need. It's very important to have a clear mind; joking and having fun are an integral part of my daily life alongside serious training."
To maintain this balance, the Norwegian players organized golf outings in Boston, New Jersey, Dallas, and Miami. Haaland was also spotted buying a cowboy hat from a store in Texas after the Ivory Coast victory and taking part in rodeo events.
Guardiola's warning and rotation plan
The fatigue management process began last November when Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola declared Haaland 'exhausted' after a win over Newcastle. In response, Solbakken, who has been in charge of Norway for six years, implemented a 'smart rotation' plan in coordination with City physiotherapist Mario Bafundi.
Haaland was rested for the first friendly match against Sweden in the preparation period, then played against Morocco in New Jersey. After qualification from the group stage was secured, he was benched for the France match to be saved for the knockout rounds.
Haaland will face England on Saturday fully fit and in high spirits. The star, aiming to open a new chapter in Norwegian football, wants to prove once again that scientific planning and protecting the star player are the shortest path to the World Cup summit.
