Erling Haaland acquires historic Viking manuscript for £100,000
Erling Haaland has made headlines beyond his football prowess, purchasing a rare 16th-century Viking manuscript for £100,000 alongside his father Alf-Inge. This acquisition of Snorre Sturlason’s Royal Sagas from 1594 marks a record as Norway’s most expensive book sale, reports BritPanorama.
The Manchester City striker placed his winning bid over the phone last December. This isn’t merely any manuscript; it is the only surviving copy of this specific edition. The historic tome covers the tales of Viking kings and queens, providing a remarkable insight into Scandinavian history.
The manuscript, a 1594 printed edition of the Heimskringla authored by 13th-century historian Snorri Sturluson, is filled with narratives about warriors, rulers, and farmers from the Jaeren district. Instead of holding onto this significant artifact, Haaland has chosen to donate it to the public library in Bryne, Norway, where he spent his formative years after being born in Leeds.
This historic text will be housed at the Municipality of Time in the Jaeren district, about 30km south of Stavanger. The gesture is significant as it ensures that the manuscript remains a part of the community that influenced the prolific goalscorer.
“I have never been a big reader, but I want the book to always be open so that you can read about those who came from my area, from Bryne and Jaeren,” Haaland stated in a press release. He expressed a belief in the power of literature to inspire individuals.
“Books give so many more people the chance to dream big and find their own path,” he added during the presentation. This philanthropic initiative surfaces shortly after Haaland was named an investor in Norway Chess, indicating a deepening commitment to supporting cultural efforts in his homeland.
On the pitch, Haaland continues to excel, leading the Premier League scoring charts with 22 goals from 29 appearances this season. His remarkable achievements both on and off the field underscore a compelling narrative of a player who seeks to contribute to his community while also making waves in professional football.
In a world where athletes often use their platforms for mere publicity, Haaland’s actions are a refreshing reminder of how heritage and modern sports can intertwine, creating lasting impacts beyond the realm of competition.
