Erling Haaland: His Impactful Borussia Dortmund Era

Erling Haaland’s tenure at Borussia Dortmund from 2019 to 2022 significantly impacted both his career and the club. During his time in Germany, he became known for his remarkable scoring ability and generous nature.

Haaland’s Generosity and Departure from Dortmund

Before leaving for Manchester City, Haaland gifted departure presents valued at over €250,000 (£220,000; $290,000) to the club staff. These gifts, including Rolex and Omega watches, were personalized with engravings of each staff member’s name and the date. Thomas Zetzmann, a former physio at Dortmund, recalled Haaland’s thoughtfulness, emphasizing that such gestures were rare among players.

Record-Breaking Goal Scoring

Haaland made history at Dortmund by being the first player to score in his debut matches across all major competitions: the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal (German Cup), and UEFA Champions League. He quickly became a key player, scoring multiple hat-tricks, including a stunning debut performance where he netted three goals against Augsburg. This achievement made him the first Bundesliga debutant to score a hat-trick from the bench.

Career Progression and Development

Before joining Dortmund, Haaland played for Red Bull Salzburg, where he excelled with 29 goals in 27 matches. His transfer to Dortmund in December 2019, after meeting a £17.1 million buyout clause, marked a significant step up in his career. He joined a squad under the management of Lucien Favre, where he showcased his exceptional talents and quickly became a fan favorite.

• Debut goals: First player to score in Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and Champions League on debut.
• Hat-tricks: Scored first Bundesliga hat-trick as a substitute against Augsburg.
• Record stats: 86 goals at Dortmund, averaging one goal every 84 minutes.

Challenges and Injuries

Despite his success, Haaland faced challenges, including injuries. He missed a total of 16 games in his final season due to fitness issues. His training regimen focused on relieving joint strain and optimizing his biomechanics, demonstrating his commitment to longevity in the sport.

Legacy at Dortmund

Haaland’s time at Dortmund was characterized by a series of unforgettable performances, including key contributions in high-stakes matches. His partnership with teammates like Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham highlighted his strong presence in the locker room.

Although he left Dortmund after winning the DFB-Pokal in his first season, his impact remained. Haaland’s legacy is defined by both his scoring prowess and his sportsmanship, making him a beloved figure among fans, players, and staff alike.

Looking Ahead

As Haaland prepares to face his former team with Manchester City, he carries a reputation as one of football’s most formidable forwards. His journey from a young talent at Dortmund to an elite striker is a testament to his hard work and determination.