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 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 social media reactions, was purchased by Haaland during a visit to a Dallas store called "Bill the Wild Man," a local establishment operating for nearly fifty years. Alongside the raccoon, Haaland bought a pair of snake leather boots and a custom hat featuring his initials and jersey number (EH9). The toy, previously priced at $750, was bought outright by Haaland, not gifted.

Julie Newport, the current manager of the Dallas store, explained that Haaland’s social media posts about the raccoon led to a surge in international orders, with around 2,000 daily shipments worldwide. The store had never received inquiries from outside the U.S. before Haaland’s visit. Newport detailed how the store prepared for Haaland’s arrival after being contacted a day before Norway’s round of 16 match, locking the doors to give him a private shopping experience. Haaland and his companions spent about an hour and a half in the shop, enjoying the visit.

This unexpected shopping trip added to Haaland’s growing popularity off the field, complementing his athletic achievements and media presence during the World Cup. The "Haaland effect" has significantly boosted the profile of the Dallas store and its unique merchandise.