The LLM Podcast

February 27, 2026
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Abhinav Ennazhiyil

Erling Haaland's Private Life: Inside His Relationship with Isabel Haugseng Johansen and Their Journey to Parenthood

Erling Haaland's Private Life: Inside His Relationship with Isabel Haugseng Johansen and Their Journey to Parenthood

Erling Haaland, one of the world's most successful football stars and Manchester City's record-breaking striker, has managed to keep his personal life largely private despite his immense fame. However, glimpses into his relationship with long-time partner Isabel Haugseng Johansen reveal a story that began in childhood and has evolved alongside his meteoric rise in football.

Erling Haaland and Isabel Haugseng Johansen relationship timeline

From Childhood Friends to Life Partners

The love story between Haaland and Johansen traces back to their early years at Bryne FK in Norway, where both joined the club's academy at a young age. Their initial friendship gradually blossomed into romance during Haaland's time at Borussia Dortmund. When the Norwegian striker made his high-profile move to Manchester City in 2022, Johansen made the significant decision to relocate with him to England.

"Erling Haaland and Isabel Haugseng Johansen first met as children at Bryne FK in Norway. Both joined the club's academy at a young age. Their friendship later turned into a relationship during Haaland's time at Borussia Dortmund," according to reports.

Johansen's Own Football Career

Isabel Haugseng Johansen, born in July 2004 in Bryne, is more than just Haaland's partner. She established her own football credentials early on, making her debut for Bryne FK's women's team at just 13 years old. During her playing career, she scored an impressive 23 goals in 36 matches, demonstrating her own talent on the pitch.

However, after becoming a mother in December 2024, Johansen made the difficult decision to briefly pause her football career to focus on family life. The couple welcomed a baby boy, though they have chosen to keep his name private, maintaining their preference for privacy despite their public profiles.

A Creative Pregnancy Announcement

In a memorable moment that captured global attention, Haaland revealed Johansen's pregnancy in a uniquely creative way. After scoring for the Norwegian national team, the striker placed the match ball under his shirt in a gesture that left fans speculating before the official confirmation. The subtle announcement showcased Haaland's personal side amid his professional achievements.

Later, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola provided additional confirmation when he hinted that Haaland had recently become a father, adding another layer to the story of the footballer's expanding family.

Building Her Own Identity

Away from football and motherhood, Isabel Johansen is actively building her own identity and career. She works part-time in the fashion industry and has developed a significant social media presence, with over 160,000 followers on Instagram. On her platform, she shares moments from motherhood, family holidays, and glimpses into her life with Haaland.

"Off the pitch, Isabel Johansen is building her own identity. She works part-time in fashion and is active on Instagram," the reports note, highlighting her growing presence both as a partner to a football superstar and as an individual pursuing her own interests.

A Supportive Partnership Through Fame

As Haaland continues to dominate European football with Manchester City, breaking records and scoring goals at an astonishing rate, Johansen remains a steady and supportive presence in his life. Their relationship has grown stronger as Haaland's fame has increased across Europe, with Johansen gradually stepping into the spotlight alongside him at major events and family moments.

Despite their public appearances together, the couple has maintained their preference for privacy, choosing to share only select moments with the public while protecting their personal lives from excessive media scrutiny.

From Academy Days to Young Parents

The journey from their academy days in Norway to life as young parents represents a significant evolution for both Haaland and Johansen. Their relationship has grown alongside Haaland's career, transitioning from childhood acquaintances to romantic partners, and now to parents navigating the challenges of family life amid the pressures of professional football.

"From academy days in Norway to life as young parents, their journey has grown with time," capturing the essence of a partnership that has matured through various life stages while remaining grounded in their shared Norwegian roots.

As Haaland continues to pursue excellence on the football pitch, breaking goal-scoring records and competing for major trophies, the stability and support provided by his relationship with Johansen and their growing family offers a grounding counterpoint to the intense demands of his professional life.

Sources: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/international-sports/who-is-erling-haalands-girlfriend-inside-the-life-of-isabel-haugseng-johansen-their-love-story-children-and-more/articleshow/128816454.cms