Erling Haaland Sparks Global Buzz After Buying Raccoon Toy in Dallas

Erling Haaland, the Norwegian football star and Manchester City striker, recently captured global attention not only for his outstanding performance at the 2026 World Cup but also for an iconic image of him descending a plane in Oslo carrying a raccoon toy and a bottle of gin. Despite Norway’s quarterfinal exit against England, Haaland finished the tournament as one of its brightest stars, scoring seven goals in six matches and gaining 22 million new Instagram followers.

The raccoon toy, which sparked widespread curiosity and social media buzz, was purchased by Haaland during a visit to a Dallas store called "Bill the Wild Man's," a local shop with nearly 50 years of history. Alongside the raccoon, Haaland bought a pair of snakeskin boots and a custom hat featuring his initials and jersey number (EH9). The toy, previously priced at $750, is currently not available for sale.

Julie Newport, the current manager of the store, confirmed that Haaland paid full price for the items and did not receive them as gifts. Haaland’s visit and social media posts about the store have dramatically increased its international popularity, with around 2,000 orders worldwide daily, a significant rise from before his visit when the store had no customers outside the U.S.

Newport detailed the visit, explaining that the store was contacted a day before Norway’s round of 16 match to prepare for security as a team member might visit. Haaland arrived unexpectedly, prompting the store to lock its doors and provide a private shopping experience. Haaland and his companions spent about an hour and a half in the store, enjoying the visit while fans waited outside.

This episode highlights Haaland’s growing cultural influence beyond football, turning him into a cult figure and boosting the profile of a small Dallas business internationally.