In a heartwarming gesture, Erling Haaland has reportedly covered the travel expenses for 200 Bryne fans by spending £13,000 on train tickets.
The Manchester City goal-scoring sensation sponsored the transportation costs ahead of his former club’s crucial Norwegian First Division play-off against Start this weekend, according to The Mirror.
Haaland’s generosity extended further, as he not only spent £13,100 (or 175,000 Norwegian Krone) on train tickets but also pledged to pay for bus tickets for any fan who chooses not to travel by train.
Bryne’s press spokesperson, Ole Morten Hobberstad, has said of Haaland’s gesture: “It’s nice that Erling wants to sponsor a trip for the Bryne supporters; it’s something the whole of Bryne really appreciates. It also contributes to the fact that several people who perhaps did not prioritise it in the first place due to price growth and interest rate increases are now travelling to support Bryne in the promotion qualification.”
Haaland, a product of the Norwegian club’s youth academy, initiated his senior career with them in the 2016–17 season. Following a brief stint at Bryne, the imposing forward transferred to Molde in February 2017.
His journey continued with notable spells at Red Bull Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund before making a move to the Premier League, joining Manchester City in the summer of 2022.
In his debut season at the Etihad Stadium, Haaland left an indelible mark, contributing 52 goals during City’s triumphant treble run. The 2023–24 campaign has seen him add another 17 goals in the early months.
While on international duty, the Norwegian star faced an ankle injury, causing him to miss his team’s final Euro 2024 qualifying match against Scotland.
Fortunately for Manchester City, Haaland has successfully recovered and is poised to be available for their crucial Premier League clash against Liverpool on Saturday.