In a recent revelation, Ole Gunnar Solskjær disclosed that he had recommended Manchester United to sign Erling Haaland in the summer of 2018, before he took over as the manager of the club. Solskjær, who was not yet at the helm of Manchester United, believed Haaland would become a top-class player and reached out to the club with his advice.
According to a statement made on @WeAreTheOverlap, Solskjær said, “The summer before I got to Man United I rang them and said: you’ve got to sign Erling Haaland. He will be top. Absolutely top class.” Despite his strong recommendation, Manchester United decided against pursuing Haaland at the time, responding with, “nah, we’ve got enough reports.”
Player Profile: Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland, currently an attacker for Manchester City in the Premier League, has proven Solskjær’s prediction to be accurate. The Norwegian international has established himself as one of the most formidable strikers in the world. His journey to Manchester City, however, did not include a stop at Manchester United, despite Solskjær’s early interest.
Haaland’s career trajectory took him from playing in Norway to making a name for himself at Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga, before finally landing at Manchester City. His style of play, characterized by his physicality, pace, and clinical finishing, has made him a key player for the Premier League champions.
Solskjær’s attempt to bring Haaland to Manchester United in 2018 highlights the Norwegian’s eye for talent and the potential missed opportunity for the Red Devils. Haaland’s subsequent success at Manchester City underscores what could have been a transformative signing for Manchester United.