Haaland spends 3.5 billion to revive Viking 'legend', Norway stirred

Erling Haaland draws attention by spending 3.5 billion to purchase and donate a rare Viking historical manuscript to a library in his hometown Norway.

Erling Haaland has long been a sports icon of Norway, but this time he makes his mark in a more special way by turning to history and roots. Not only scoring regularly for Manchester City, the 26-year-old striker also wants to spread cultural values to the community where he grew up.

Although born in Leeds when his father Alf-Inge Haaland played for Leeds United, Haaland grew up in the town of Bryne (Norway). This place becomes the destination of a historically significant gift, as he decides to donate a rare Viking manuscript – an action showing his desire to inspire beyond football.

The manuscript was purchased by Haaland and his father in December for 1.3 million Norwegian kroner, about 100,000 Pounds (3.5 billion), setting a record for book sale price in this Nordic country. This is a 1594 printed edition of the work compiled by 13th-century historian Snorri Sturluson, recounting medieval stories of kings, queens, farmers, and Viking warriors.

The special point is that this is the only surviving copy. Haaland handed it over to the library in Bryne for display and opened it for public access. This town belongs to the Jæren region, about 30 km south of Stavanger, associated with the childhood of Norway's number one striker.

Speaking to domestic media, Haaland emphasized the profound meaning of the gift: “I want the book to always be open so people can read about those who originated from where I was born, from Bryne and Jæren.” He also added: “I am fortunate to live my football dream, but not everyone has that opportunity.”

At the end, the message this striker aims for becomes clearer: “Books help more people dream big, see new possibilities, and find their own path.” In the context that he still leads the Premier League scoring list with 22 goals after 29 matches, this action makes Haaland's image even more comprehensive in the eyes of Norwegian fans.

Erling Haaland's action shows the influence of a star is not only in the goals, but also in how he inspires culture, knowledge, and roots for his hometown community.