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Haaland's 'bear-like' appetite: Norwegian star eats 6,000 calories daily
๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท South Korea /Sports

Haaland's 'bear-like' appetite: Norwegian star eats 6,000 calories daily

From Dong-A Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Context piece
  • Norwegian striker Erling Haaland consumes approximately 6,000 calories daily to maintain his physique, more than double the average adult male intake.
  • Haaland scored seven goals in the 2026 World Cup, leading Norway to a 2-1 victory against Brazil in the Round of 16.
  • While he enjoys high-calorie foods like kebabs and Chinese cuisine during breaks, he adheres to a strict diet of lean protein and vegetables during the season.

Norwegian football star Erling Haaland's extraordinary diet has become a major talking point following his stellar performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Manchester City striker reportedly consumes around 6,000 calories per day to fuel his 195cm (6ft 5in) frame, significantly exceeding the average adult male's recommended intake of 2,200-2,500 calories.

Haaland's prowess on the field was on full display during the tournament, where he netted seven goals, including two crucial goals in Norway's surprising 2-1 victory over tournament favorites Brazil in the Round of 16. His performance has drawn comparisons to elite athletes who meticulously manage their nutrition.

I love kebabs

โ€” Erling HaalandHaaland describing his occasional indulgence in high-calorie food.

Back in his hometown of Bryne, Haaland is known to indulge in calorie-dense foods. He has previously expressed his love for kebabs, admitting to eating them a couple of times a year, and also favors dishes like 'kebab pizza' and rich Chinese food. He particularly enjoys meat-heavy meals, including chicken and duck.

He eats like a bear, even though he's muscular.

โ€” Jo Inge BergetA former teammate describing Haaland's immense appetite.

However, during the football season, Haaland's approach shifts dramatically. He adheres to a rigorous diet focused on lean protein and fresh vegetables, often consuming chicken or pasta prepared without salt or oil. Fish is also a regular part of his meals. He avoids sugary snacks and processed foods, primarily drinking water.

His father, Alf-Inge Haaland, a former professional footballer himself, has praised his son's discipline, comparing his dietary habits to those of Cristiano Ronaldo. "Erling is a much more professional player than I was," Alf-Inge stated, recalling how Ronaldo would only eat fish for lunch. "Erling tries to follow Ronaldo's diet exactly," he added, emphasizing the importance of healthy habits.

Erling is a much more professional player than I was.

โ€” Alf-Inge HaalandHaaland's father commenting on his son's dedication.

Beyond his strict seasonal diet, Haaland's sheer volume of food is astonishing. Former teammate Jo Inge Berget likened his appetite to that of a bear, remarking, "He's a monster player. I've never seen anyone eat as much as he does. He eats like a bear, even though he's muscular."

Erling tries to follow Ronaldo's diet exactly.

โ€” Alf-Inge HaalandHaaland's father noting his son's adherence to strict dietary practices.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.