Erling Haaland put aside for a moment the sack he has stuffed with goals against opposing defenses in the Premier League and Champions League, put on a Santa Claus outfit, and went out in Manchester handing out gifts to strangers he saw for the first time.
The Norwegian City striker recorded minute by minute his transformation into a chubby bearded man, and upon reaching the first house he visited, he admitted, “I’m nervous – like before a match,” while among the six kids waiting for their presents, one was a Manchester United fan…
“He’s on the naughty list,” was his first comment, and after hearing from the other kids (who hadn’t recognized him) that along with Foden he is their favorite player, he took pictures with them. When they returned inside, they realized the hero behind the beard was Haaland.
The kids’ reaction at 4:17 in the video is truly priceless, as was the “gift” he gave them.
At the next house, he was greeted by three kids wearing City jerseys who recognized him quickly because, as one of them explained: “We recognized the voice because we hear you on TV.”
The same happened at the third house he visited, with the Norwegian sighing and admitting: “… I need to work on my accent,” and when he asked a young fan what City should do to win the championship, he heard: “Give the ball to you.” At that moment, his smile was the same as when he scored a goal, and he just whispered: “… smart kid.”
At the same house, the highlight was the reaction of the daughter of the family, who couldn’t believe Haaland was in their home…
That’s where Santa Haaland’s adventure ended (with him admitting again that he needs voice practice but expressing satisfaction with the result). What’s certain is that the families who welcomed him will remember this Christmas for many years.
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