Erling Haaland has already won one prize: the most viral player of the World Cup

Key Points:

• Norway’s Erling Haaland has become the most viral player of the World Cup, with a significant surge in social media searches and posts, especially on TikTok and Instagram, where his following grew from 40 million to 60 million during the tournament.
• Haaland’s off-pitch content, including humorous Instagram stories, Snapchat posts, and viral videos showcasing his sportsmanship, has greatly contributed to his popularity beyond his goalscoring achievements.
• His friendship with England midfielder Jude Bellingham and relatable, fun personality have endeared him to a global audience, attracting fans who were previously unfamiliar with him.
• Manchester City supporters praise Haaland not only for his footballing talent but also for his genuine, approachable personality and active engagement with fans on social media.
• Haaland’s positive vibe and entertaining presence have helped offset some of the negative sentiments surrounding the World Cup, highlighting the role of footballers in providing joy and connection to fans worldwide.