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Why Erling Haaland uses a different name when playing for Norway

Published 15:33 22 Jun 2026 BST

Updated 15:34 22 Jun 2026 BST

JOE
Why Erling Haaland uses a different name when playing for Norway

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Fans have been asking the question

Why does Erling Haaland use a different name when he plays for Norway, as oppose to Man City?

Well, that is the question on everyone's lips, and lucky for you, we have the answer.

Erling Haaland bagged the first two goals in his country's 4-1 win over Iraq in Boston.

After his magnificent two-goal exploits, in what was his World Cup debut, many noticed something curious on the back of the Man City star's jersey.

Instead of saying just 'Haaland' - like it does for his club - the writing spelt out 'Braut Haaland'.

And this is not a new thing for the striker, as he has been using this name since August when representing his country.

Article imageLogo Camera in article

Haaland used the name 'Braut Haaland' while playing for Norway. Credit: Getty.

The reason for it is that it's a tribute to both his mother and father's names; his mother being Gry Marita Braut, and his father, Alf-Inge Haaland.

His father is a former professional footballer who also played for Man City while mother is a former elite heptathlete.

In fact, in Norway it is custom for the names of both parents to be used, although not every Norwegian players uses this on their jersey.

In Erling Haaland's early career at Red Bull Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund, the striker was referred to by the double surname.

However, he dropped the 'Braut' part of the name while playing for Dortmund and Manchester City.

The Norwegian is set to make his second appearance at the World Cup early tomorrow morning against Senegal.

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Why Erling Haaland uses a different name when playing for Norway