Did Erling Haaland Realy Bring Home Live Raccoon As Pet from America After FIFA World Cup 2026 Exit?

Erling Haaland, the prolific Manchester City striker and a global internet sensation, touched down in his native Norway, following Norway's historic run to the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals. However, it wasn't just his team's performance that had fans talking; Haaland disembarked from his flight at Oslo's Gardermoen Airport cradling a curious companion: a raccoon. Social media exploded with speculation, but the 'pet' is a unique souvenir, not a live animal.

The 25-year-old football star’s new friend is a taxidermy “Whiskey Raccoon,” a $750 novelty purchased from Wild Bill's Western Store in Dallas, Texas. The item, which depicts a raccoon mounted on a wooden base and holding a miniature whiskey bottle, quickly became the centre of attention after Haaland posted a photo on his social media with the caption, “It followed me home.”

Erling Haaland with Whiskey Raccoon

A Texan Touchdown for the Goal Machine

Haaland's eccentric purchase stems from a visit to Wild Bill's Western Store at the beginning of July 2026, during Norway's stint in Texas for the World Cup. His team had celebrated their first-ever World Cup knockout-stage victory, a 2-1 win against Ivory Coast at Dallas Stadium on June 30, 2026, before their eventual quarter-final exit to England.

Whiskey Raccoon Souvenir

During his visit to the Dallas establishment, the Norwegian striker fully embraced the local culture, reportedly spending an hour and a half shopping. He acquired several cowboy hats, exotic boots, a longhorn belt buckle, and a T-shirt emblazoned with the phrase “Y’all can kiss my Dallas”, all of which contributed to a total bill of around $10,000, footed by Haaland. The "Whiskey Raccoon" quickly sold out from the store’s inventory following Haaland's viral post, prompting Wild Bill's Western Store to even initiate international shipping to meet global demand.

Erling Haaland at Wild Bill's Western Store

Haaland's Quirky Persona Shines

This isn't the first time Haaland's off-pitch antics have captured global attention. Known for his distinctive blonde man bun, expressive facial reactions, and a social media presence that often blends humour with his athletic prowess, the Manchester City star continues to cement his reputation as one of football's most entertaining personalities. While Norway's World Cup dream ended in the quarter-finals, Haaland's unique Texan souvenir ensures his journey home remains as memorable as his seven goals in five matches during the tournament.

The taxidermy raccoon is a prime example of Haaland's distinctive taste, adding another chapter to his already colourful public image, proving that even without a World Cup trophy, he certainly knows how to bring home a memorable keepsake.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 14, 2026 02:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).