Erling Haaland’s arrival at Manchester City in 2022 sent shockwaves through the Premier League. His incredible goalscoring prowess left many wondering, “Where Did Haaland Play Before Manchester City?” The answer lies within a journey across Europe, where Haaland honed his skills and established himself as a global footballing icon.
Haaland’s Early Days: From Bryne to Molde
Haaland’s journey began in Bryne, Norway, his birthplace. He started his youth career at Bryne FK, his local club, rapidly ascending through the ranks. His talent couldn’t be contained, and in 2017, at just 16 years old, he made his senior debut for Bryne.
His performances caught the eye of Molde FK, a top-tier Norwegian club, who signed him in 2017. Under the guidance of Ole Gunnar Solskjær, a name familiar to Manchester United fans, Haaland blossomed. He showcased his potential, scoring 14 goals in 39 appearances for Molde.
Erling Haaland playing for Molde FK
Red Bull Salzburg: Launching Pad to Stardom
Haaland’s time in Molde proved to be a steppingstone to greater things. In 2019, he made a significant move to Red Bull Salzburg, an Austrian powerhouse known for developing young talent. It was in Salzburg that Haaland truly announced himself on the world stage.
He enjoyed a sensational 2019-2020 season, scoring an astonishing 29 goals in just 27 appearances across all competitions. His Champions League hat-trick against Genk, in particular, put him firmly on the radar of Europe’s elite clubs.
Borussia Dortmund: Taking the Bundesliga by Storm
Haaland’s incredible form for Salzburg led to a high-profile transfer to Borussia Dortmund in January 2020. Joining the Bundesliga giants was a natural progression for the young striker.
He seamlessly adapted to the demands of German football, scoring a remarkable 86 goals in just 89 appearances for Dortmund. His pace, power, and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for Bundesliga defenders.
Haaland’s time in Dortmund was characterized by impressive goalscoring feats, including a memorable Champions League campaign in 2021, where he finished as the top scorer.
Manchester City: A New Chapter Begins
After conquering Austria and Germany, Haaland set his sights on the Premier League. In the summer of 2022, he joined Manchester City, one of the most dominant forces in English football.
His move to Manchester City reunited him with Pep Guardiola, a manager renowned for his tactical brilliance and ability to get the best out of attacking players. The footballing world eagerly anticipated how Haaland would adapt to Guardiola’s system and the physicality of the Premier League.
Conclusion: A Global Star Still Rising
Erling Haaland’s journey from Bryne to Manchester City is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. His remarkable goalscoring record at such a young age is a testament to his status as one of the most exciting prospects in world football.
If you’re interested in learning more about how Haaland compares to other footballing greats, check out our article on neymar vs haaland.