Many people know Haaland because of his monstrous goal-scoring nature and his meditation celebration pose, uh, and also the trending red braids from Taobao (damn meme).

But actually, he did something more memorable than scoring goals: he and his dad spent about $134k to buy a 1594 printed edition of *Heimskringla*.

This is not just an ordinary ancient book.

*Heimskringla* was completed around 1230 by Icelandic historian Snorri Sturluson, recording the stories of Norwegian kings and important history of the Viking Age—it is one of Norway’s most important historical works.

The 1594 edition that Haaland bought is also the first formally printed history book in Norway, and only this one copy remains.

Many thought he would keep it for himself, but he didn’t. Instead, he donated the book to his hometown library in Bryne, with only one request.

Public display, and anyone can read it. He said this book belongs to Norway’s history, and should also belong to all Norwegians. Players can set records. But true legends also protect their culture.

This might be why Haaland is so beloved by Norwegians (and it finally makes sense why Norwegians see Haaland as a revival of the Vikings...).

Below is a video of Haaland cooking at home (super Viking... lol).