Bryne, Norway – Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has demonstrated a commitment to his roots beyond the football pitch, donating a rare 16th-century manuscript of Viking sagas to the library in his hometown of Bryne, Norway. The footballer and his father, Alf-Inge Haaland, purchased the book for 1.3 million Norwegian crowns (approximately $134,000 USD or £100,000) in December, a record for a book sale in Norway, according to the BBC and The Viking Herald.
The manuscript is a 1594 printed edition of the perform by 13th-century Icelandic historian Snorri Sturluson, detailing medieval stories of Viking kings, queens, farmers, and warriors. It’s the only surviving copy of Mattis Størssøn’s edition of the Heimskringla saga, a collection of Norse royal sagas. Haaland has gifted this unique piece of Norwegian history to the library in Bryne, where he spent his childhood after being born in Leeds, England, although his father played for Leeds United.
The rare 16th-century manuscript donated by Erling Haaland to the Bryne library.
Haaland stipulated that the book should be displayed open to the public, allowing access to the stories of those who came from Bryne and Jæren, the district surrounding his hometown. “I wish the book always to lie open so that people can read about those who came from where I come from, from Bryne and Jæren,” Haaland said, as reported by Norwegian media. He emphasized the importance of books in fostering dreams and providing opportunities, stating, “I’ve been lucky enough to live out my dream through football, and I know not everyone gets that chance. Books give so many more people the chance to dream big, see new possibilities and find their own path.”
The donation comes as Haaland continues a stellar season with Manchester City. He currently leads the Premier League in scoring with 22 goals in 29 appearances as of March 25, 2026, and finished as the top scorer in European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup with 16 goals. Norway has qualified for the tournament for the first time since 1998.
While acknowledging he wasn’t always an avid reader, Haaland expressed a desire to inspire a love of reading in others, particularly young people. “I was never a big reader,” he admitted in a statement released by his hometown municipality of Time. “I live my dream, but that is unfortunately not possible for many. I have seen how books enable many people to dream and realize their dreams.”
To further encourage literacy, the municipality of Time is organizing a reading competition at local schools in the coming academic year. The prize for the winner will be a visit to Oslo to attend a match featuring Haaland and the Norwegian national team. This initiative underscores Haaland’s commitment to giving back to the community that shaped him.
The manuscript is on permanent display at the Bryne library, accessible to the public.
The Heimskringla saga, written by Snorri Sturluson in the 13th century, is considered a cornerstone of Norse literature and a vital source for understanding Viking history and culture. The donation ensures this important historical text remains accessible to future generations in Haaland’s hometown. The book’s acquisition and donation highlight Haaland’s growing role as a cultural ambassador for Norway, extending beyond his achievements on the football field.
Haaland’s recent investments extend beyond cultural preservation; he recently became an investor in the Norway Chess initiative, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting Norwegian endeavors. He continues to build his personal brand through a growing YouTube channel, providing fans with a glimpse into his life both on and off the pitch.
Manchester City will return to Premier League action on March 28th, 2026, against Fulham at the Etihad Stadium. Haaland will undoubtedly be a key figure as City continues its pursuit of the league title. The Norwegian national team’s next scheduled match is a friendly against Denmark on June 5th, 2026, in preparation for the World Cup later that year.
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