Haaland’s appeal has taken on a life of its own. The report says users have embraced his exaggerated expressions, imposing frame and unusually gentle public manner, turning him into a recurring meme.
The nickname “Ha Bao” - roughly, “baby Ha” - has become central to that image. It presents the Norwegian as both intimidating athlete and approachable character, a contrast that has helped his popularity spread beyond regular football followers.
His humour has reinforced the connection. Asked whether he was a robot, Haaland reportedly replied “talvez” - “maybe” - while also joking that he runs with a “código de trapaça”, or “cheat code”.
The rapid growth of his Chinese audience appears to have created a new commercial lane. Haaland is reportedly set to serve as a global ambassador for Walovi, the international brand linked to the Chinese herbal drink Wang Lao Ji.
The campaign reportedly leaned into the same qualities that made him popular online: physical comedy, an exaggerated performance and an attempt to speak Chinese. It was a natural extension of the “Ha Bao” persona rather than a conventional football endorsement.
At Manchester City, Haaland remains defined primarily by his status as one of football’s most feared strikers. For Norway, however, the approaching 2026 World Cup offers another stage for his global profile.
The update also reports Norway’s 4-1 win over Iraq, with Haaland drawing attention for chasing opponents as aggressively as he attacks goal. That combination - elite production, comic self-awareness and relentless intensity - is making him unusually marketable.
The next storyline will be whether Haaland’s Chinese following continues to grow through the World Cup, and whether “Ha Bao” becomes as recognisable a part of his identity as the Manchester City shirt.