Manchester City striker Erling Haaland was released early from international duty with Norway but appears to be relaxed before the return of the Premier League
09:52, 14 Oct 2025Updated 09:55, 14 Oct 2025
Manchester City forward Erling Haaland has seemingly moved to calm fears over fresh injury issues after being sent home early from international duty. The Norwegian sparked concerns over a period on the sidelines after he was released from duty with Stale Solbakken's side.
Haaland continued his red-hot form during the World Cup qualifying campaign after netting a hat-trick in a 5-0 win over Israel, despite missing two penalties during the contest. But he was released from international duty ahead of their friendly with New Zealand as the 25-year-old was one of a number of players given permission to return to their clubs.
The Norwegian FA confirmed: "Sebastian Sebulonsen is in the Norwegian national team squad, he and Sverre Nypan are participating in today's training.
READ MORE: Donald Trump's feelings clear on Man City owner Sheikh Mansour after 12-word remarkREAD MORE: Man City legend Vincent Kompany books out entire Manchester hotel for a stunning surprise"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."
However, Haaland used his time off by playing golf which was revealed in a series of new snaps posted to his Instagram account. The forward posed with a bold pink driver and appeared to be enjoying some family time as his dad, Alf-Inge, was all-smiles in the background.
Haaland has sensationally returned to form and is an early pace-setter in the Premier League's golden boot race with nine goals in seven games.
His blistering hot return landed him a fourth Premier League Player of the Month award. The Norwegian expressed his delight to help City return to winning ways as they sit three points off leaders Arsenal.
“September was an important month for us as a team. We played some really good football, stayed unbeaten, and got important wins for our fans. I’m happy I could help the team with goals and performances,” Haaland said.
“Now we just keep going — keep working hard every day, because there’s a tough schedule after the international break. Hopefully we can keep the same level and win even more games.”
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