Overview

• The Norwegian FA confirmed Haaland's early release ahead of the New Zealand friendly, with coach Stale Solbakken saying players with heavy Champions League schedules were told to return to their clubs.
• Haaland did not go straight back to Manchester and is recuperating in Marbella, sharing golf and family photos and a light‑hearted outfit post on social media.
• The striker scored a hat-trick in the 5-0 win over Israel and missed two penalties, extending an exceptional scoring run that has him leading the Premier League Golden Boot race.
• City view the downtime as timely before fixtures against Everton on Saturday, Villarreal in the Champions League, and Aston Villa the following week.
• Norway will face New Zealand without Haaland, with Jørgen Strand Larsen expected to lead the line in his absence.