Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has opened up about his gaming habits, revealing a personal Xbox library that aligns perfectly with Microsoft’s current ecosystem. The video footage, shared via social media user yoxic, shows the Norwegian international playing titles like GTA, Minecraft, and notably, the original Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2.
The games in Haaland’s library
While it is no surprise to see football simulation titles or GTA on a high-profile athlete’s console, the specific choices here offer insight into his gaming taste. Haaland praised the original Modern Warfare 2 as one of the top three games ever made, distinguishing it from the more recent reboot entries that often receive mixed reviews.
He also expressed high anticipation for the upcoming GTA 6. It is worth noting that Haaland was only 13 years old when GTA 5 originally launched. The long wait between installments has coincided with his rise to becoming one of the most feared strikers in global football.
A hardware fan with style
Beyond the software, Haaland’s setup includes some distinct hardware flair. The video confirms he owns the Xbox Series X mini fridge, a niche accessory that signals a deeper engagement with the brand beyond just playing games. This kind of personal investment in Microsoft’s ecosystem is exactly what brands look for when identifying authentic ambassadors.
Why Xbox should act now
Social media reaction has been swift, with many users tagging Xbox CEO Asha Sharma and marketing chief Aaron Greenberg. The argument is simple: Haaland is providing organic, positive visibility for the platform without any contractual obligation.
There is also a clear precedent for this type of partnership within Microsoft’s recent strategy. Darts sensation Luke Littler was identified as an Xbox player before being signed on officially. Given Haaland’s global recognition and his genuine enthusiasm for the console, a similar deal could resonate strongly with younger audiences who follow both football and gaming.
What this means for you: If Microsoft moves quickly to formalize this relationship, expect to see more cross-promotional content featuring Haaland in the coming months. For fans of both sports and gaming, it validates the intersection of these hobbies as a mainstream cultural force.
Source: Windows Central
Over to you: Do you think signing Erling Haaland would help Xbox reach new audiences, or is he too niche for a global campaign?
