Norwegian soccer star Erling Haaland gains large fan base in China
8 reported
According to an NBC News report, Norwegian striker Erling Haaland has become a popular figure among Chinese soccer fans, despite the absence of Chinese players at the current World Cup. The 6-foot-4 Manchester City star is affectionately called “Ha Bao,” or “Baby Ha,” on Chinese social media, where his facial expressions and playing style have become viral memes. Since launching a Douyin account just over a month ago, Haaland has amassed 5.8 million followers. His popularity has led to business deals with Chinese companies, including an ad campaign for herbal tea brand Walovi and a partnership with home appliance manufacturer Midea. Haaland has also promoted Norwegian salmon in China. Fans describe him as relatable and authentic, contrasting his approach to soccer with China’s state sports system.
What’s reported
Erling Haaland is a 6-foot-4 Norwegian striker for Manchester City.
Chinese fans call him “Ha Bao,” meaning “Baby Ha.”
Haaland has 5.8 million followers on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok, after launching his account just over a month ago.
He has business deals with Chinese companies Walovi (herbal tea) and Midea (home appliances).
Haaland promotes Norwegian salmon in China.
A fan named Gum Li said Haaland feels “like one of our close friends,” unlike Cristiano Ronaldo.
Haaland addressed a fan question about being a robot in a Douyin video, saying, “Maybe I am sometimes.”
His partner, Isabel Haugseng Johansen, has about 350,000 followers on Douyin.
Key figures
Erling Haaland, Norwegian striker for Manchester City
Gum Li, 34-year-old fan from Guangdong province
Zhang Yihuai, 23-year-old fan from Shanghai
Isabel Haugseng Johansen, Haaland’s partner
Sources: NBC News
