Following in Messi and Beckham’s footsteps? Erling Haaland talks MLS future after Manchester City

Manchester City found in Erling Haaland a player to build their future around. Since arriving in the Premier League, the striker has been a standout performer and has been linked with moves to other European giants, including Real Madrid. However, he has now addressed the possibility of following David Beckham and Lionel Messi by testing himself in Major League Soccer.

In a recent interview with Time, Haaland opened up about his experience in the United States during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup with the Citizens. He started two matches and came off the bench in two others, scoring three goals before their elimination in the Round of 16 against Al Hilal.

Despite the team’s early exit, Erling was struck by how recognized he was in the country—something that became obvious every time he stepped onto the field, judging by the fan reactions. “I didn’t know I was famous in the U.S.,” the striker admitted. “Everyone knows who I am.”

That led the interview toward a potential MLS future for Haaland. Rather than shutting down the idea, he left the door open for a move one day. “You never know what the future is going to bring,” he said.

And to show he’s been paying attention to what’s happening in MLS, the Norwegian striker mentioned two of the league’s biggest names in recent memory. “What Messi is doing now is incredible. Also what Beckham did, it’s amazing,” Haaland emphasized.

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Haaland talks about the USMNT

In the same conversation, Haaland was asked about the chances of the USMNT seriously competing for a World Cup title, considering the United States will co-host the 2026 edition alongside Mexico and Canada. “I don’t want to be that guy that says the USA is never going to win the World Cup, then they actually win it,” he said with a laugh.

“So there’s a 1% chance they’re going to do it,” Erling predicted. He then turned the conversation to his own national team: “Norway has a 0.5… If we would qualify for the World Cup, it would be like another big nation winning it. It would be the biggest party ever. Scenes in Oslo would be incredible.”

Haaland’s dream of playing in a World Cup with Norway doesn’t seem so far-fetched at the moment. They’re currently in Group I of the UEFA qualifiers alongside Italy, Israel, Estonia, and Moldova, and have won their first four matches. They lead the standings with 12 points. If they qualify, it would mark Norway’s fourth World Cup appearance, following previous entries in 1938, 1994, and 1998.

How long is Haaland under contract with Manchester City?

Despite the speculation surrounding a possible future in MLS for Erling Haaland, such a move doesn’t appear imminent. In fact, earlier this year he signed a rare long-term contract extension with Manchester City, tying him to the club until June 30, 2034, with an average annual salary of $27.3 million, according to Spotrac. By the time his deal in England expires, Haaland will be nearing his 34th birthday.