Antonio Nusa has offered a rare glimpse into what makes Erling Haaland tick — not as a goalscorer, but as a leader. The RB Leipzig winger, who lines up alongside Haaland for Norway, described a connection built as much on observation as on service.

"I have a good connection with him on the pitch – and that makes it easy to play together," Nusa said. "That's why I provide him with so many assists."

It was the next part that stood out. "As a person, I learn from him by seeing how he lives and thinks," Nusa added. "It's great to be able to see that up close and incorporate it into my own life."

Haaland's standing within the Norway setup has grown alongside his goalscoring. He is now a key leader for the national team, and the numbers behind that status are stark: 64 goals in 56 appearances for his country.

That form carried into the Nations League opener against Denmark, where Haaland struck twice in a 3-2 win. Oscar Bobb, another former City man, was also on target that night.

Norway's current crop has drawn attention beyond Scandinavia. Martin Ødegaard and Nusa are part of a generation that caught the eye at this year's FIFA World Cup, though their run ended at the quarter-final stage against England.

At club level, Haaland's influence has been formally recognised. Enzo Maresca named him in City's captaincy group for the 2026/27 season, a decision that reflects his seniority within a squad navigating a period of transition.

Nusa, for his part, is clear about the wider picture. "We're going through a good period for Norwegian football right now, and I believe it's going to get even better," he said.

He also sees himself as a different kind of inspiration. "I'm trying to play my part in Norwegian football," Nusa said. "People see that I'm different from Haaland or Ødegaard – and that seems to inspire them too."

The comments came after Norway reversed a decision to make Haaland available for a press conference on Friday. That call followed news of a guilty verdict handed down against Manchester City in breach of the Premier League's financial rules.

For City, Haaland's importance extends beyond the penalty box. Nusa's remarks offer a reminder that the striker's value to his national team — and by extension his club — is not measured solely in goals.

Norway's momentum, and Haaland's role within it, shows no sign of slowing.