Chinese soccer fans have recently been scouring the internet for the impossible: not trainers, autographs, jerseys, or even footballs, but the tiny shaving turbans worn by striker Erling Haaland.
Hailed by mainland social media users as the “memorable man” of the World Cup, Haaland has captivated many Chinese football fans at home and abroad this summer through his skill, unknowingly funny charm, unique appearance, and personality.
Early on Saturday, the much-anticipated clash between France and Norway arrived, with fans eager to watch Kylian Mbappe and Haaland battle it out.
But it waited in vain, Haaland is tied to the bench in the game that Norway lost 4-1.
“I set the alarm at 3 in the morning, and I saw Ha Bao raising his nose to the side,” the Chinese fan said. Another posted later that morning: “I waited for the sun to come up but still didn’t see Haaland.”
The Manchester City striker’s popularity at this World Cup has extended beyond his goals. In China, even non-soccer fans have heard his reputation and listened to him.
