Pep Guardiola has expressed his delight at Erling Haaland leading Norway to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that the striker fully deserves the opportunity to compete on football’s biggest stage. The last time Norway qualified for a World Cup, Haaland had not yet been born, making this achievement particularly significant. The forward has long sought to guide his nation back to a major tournament, and his efforts have now been rewarded.
Norway have not featured at a major international competition for over a decade, but this generation has shown the quality and determination necessary to return to the global stage. Their successful qualifying campaign included a notable victory over Italy, which secured them an automatic place at the tournament. This performance has established Norway as one of the teams to watch ahead of the World Cup.
Haaland’s Impact and Norway’s Qualification
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Haaland has been central to Norway’s resurgence, with his goal-scoring and leadership providing the foundation for their success. The striker’s influence has been evident throughout the qualifiers, where he consistently delivered decisive performances. His presence has also inspired confidence in his teammates, many of whom were not yet born the last time Norway played at a World Cup. For Haaland, this campaign represents both national pride and an opportunity to further his reputation on the world stage.
The 2026 World Cup also comes during a crucial season for Haaland at club level. Success with Norway, combined with potential trophies at Manchester City, could strengthen his case for individual honours such as the Ballon d’Or. Guardiola has continually praised his striker’s form, both domestically and internationally, highlighting his importance to City’s attacking line-up.
Guardiola on Haaland’s Achievement
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Speaking via the [Manchester City website](https://www.mancity.com/news/mens/pep-guardiola-injury-update-newcastle-63899254), Guardiola commented on the forward’s accomplishment, saying, “I am happy for him with his national team, and I saw yesterday that many of the squad were not born the last time Norway were in the World Cup.
“Qualification has been incredible, he has discovered a lot of goals. As a world-class player, he deserves to play at a World Cup so I am happy for him.”
Guardiola’s remarks underscore Haaland’s status as a world-class talent and reflect the pride felt by both club and country. Norway’s qualification marks a historic moment for the nation and a personal milestone for Haaland, who now looks ahead to competing on football’s most prestigious stage.