The strange request made by the Norwegian national team in the United States to keep Erling Haaland happy

While the teams are fine-tuning the last details to face the 2026 World Cup, Norway decided to take an unusual measure to ensure the well-being of its footballers during their stay in the United States. The European team sent hundreds of kilos of traditional food from their country with the aim of keeping their players' diet intact and avoiding any issues related to food.

The decision caught the attention of both insiders and outsiders, especially because it included an impressive shipment of typical Norwegian products intended to supply the team during the first weeks of competition.

Among the main beneficiaries is Erling Haaland, the team's star and one of the top figures in world football, who is looking to lead Norway in a historic World Cup participation.

The food Norway brought from Europe to the World Cup

According to reports, the Norwegian delegation sent nearly 300 kilos of Atlantic salmon and white fish, two fundamental products in the usual diet of footballers from the Scandinavian country.

In addition, they included 116 kilos of brunost, the traditional caramelized brown cheese that is part of Norwegian culinary culture, as well as about 6,000 oranges intended for the daily consumption of players and coaching staff.

The shipment arrived directly at the training center that the team set up in Greensboro, where the squad is preparing to face the commitments of the group stage.

Why Norway decided to bring its own food

The explanation was provided by Aron Espeland, the head chef of the delegation, who emphasized the importance of maintaining familiar eating habits during a competition of such physical and mental demands.

The specialist pointed out that sudden changes in diet can lead to digestive disorders, difficulties in falling asleep, and even affect players' concentration, factors that ultimately have a direct impact on athletic performance.

For this reason, the federation opted to transport products from Europe to replicate the meals that footballers usually consume during the season.

The measure also reflects a certain distrust towards the food available in the United States, a country whose cuisine often contains high levels of sugars, fats, and ultra-processed foods.