Haaland Maneuver Divides Commentators: 'Like Celebrating Without Messi'

Norwegian football stars Erling Haaland and Sander Berge have sparked a debate among commentators after leaving a public celebration at the Royal Palace early. The duo departed Slottet before the team could celebrate with the estimated 90,000 fans gathered on Karl Johan street in Oslo. Their early exit was to catch a private jet to Catania, Italy, where Haaland is expected to attend a Dolce & Gabbana fashion show.

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It is a little sad, one hour away from something truly legendary. The last will unfortunately be remembered best.

NRK commentator Jan Petter Saltvedt expressed disappointment, stating it was a shame to miss a legendary moment. He suggested the players should have stayed for a few more minutes of celebration, emphasizing that a private jet waits for its passengers. Saltvedt felt the action projected an image of Haaland being on a level that he deigns to participate in, but not bothering with the rest.

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You should never have to catch a private jet. That is the whole point of a private jet; it stands there until you arrive.

VG football commentator Trond Johannessen found the maneuver surprising, given Haaland's significant contributions to Norway's World Cup campaign. While acknowledging potential flight delays, he lamented the missed opportunity for historical images. Johannessen compared the situation to Argentina celebrating without Messi, highlighting the void left by the stars' absence.

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Put a little on edge – and it is probably a little unfair to Haaland – it radiates a bit that 'the king is at a level I can be bothered with, I can't be bothered with the rest right now'.

However, Aftenposten commentator Birger Løfaldli was less critical. He stated he couldn't get too worked up about it, though he admitted it would have been nice if Haaland had stayed. Løfaldli acknowledged Haaland's excellent performance throughout the championship and suggested that such scheduling conflicts are simply something to live with. The article also notes that Haaland is an ambassador for the fashion brand, implying potential prior commitments.

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We have seen how much it has meant for Haaland to play for Norway in the World Cup, and it was historical images that will be talked about for a hundred years.