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What timing to have “Home Alone” remind us that the end of the year is near. You’d think that “Home Alone in Concert” by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) this December 2026 would be a cosy and wonderful treat until… you meet Erling Haaland, who’s classy from the way he embraces jokes and memes about him, including the ones made on his appearance on the pitch – considering his status in the world of football.

For context, the Manchester City striker was among those rested by his football team manager. However, instead of taking a complete rest for the few days he was given (after having played a series of matches in the current season), Haaland chose to support his teammates for the Carabao Cup, an annual men’s domestic football competition in England, organised by the English Football League (EFL). While he danced on the pitch at the end of the match to celebrate, winning based on penalty shootouts, a few fans were sharp to notice that Haaland looked like one of the bad guys, trying to burgle the fictional home of Kevin McCallister who was accidentally left “Home Alone”.

Haaland was wearing a black beanie and a long brown coat, and had a relaxed-fit trousers and black shoes, looking smart.

When he realised the resemblance, Haaland took to social media to post about it, having the picture side by side, including a separate one where he previously did one with the iconic shocked face, mimicking Kevin McCallister ‘s when he had accidentally applied his father’s burning-hot aftershave to his face.

Who doesn’t like “Home Alone”? It’s even funnier when you realise “Home Alone” is Haaland’s favourite. It’s perhaps Haaland’s way of gifting his fans early Christmas presents, without trying to look too hard for them.

And is there anything Haaland can’t do? Haaland’s old YouTube video/failed attempt as a rapper resurfaced around the time he was in the World Cup in June/July 2026 and got a viral remix, which was obviously also comical, even to those who don’t speak Norwegian. He’s also known for being humble and nice (unless he is bullied or provoked on pitch). He takes pride in cooking at least breakfast and buys fresh produce to minimise exposure to processed food and drinks. Perhaps, if he wasn’t a footballer, he’d be a comedian instead, given the way he carries himself and how he imitates facial expressions of others.

So, if you’re in need of a “Home Alone” re-watch now, I won’t blame you.

“Home Alone” is a franchise of movies, in which Kevin McCallister, the main protagonist was portrayed by Macaulay Culkin for the first two films. Joe Pesci played the role of the burglar in the beanie, one part of the duo of burglars, “The Wet Bandits”.

The post can be found across Haaland’s X and Instagram official accounts.

Ering Haaland was born in England to Norwegian parents because at the time of his birth, the elder Haaland was playing for England. However, Haaland’s father’s career was cut short due to an unfortunate incident on-pitch. Since then, the younger Haaland has been advised not to play in such a manner. The Haalands moved back to Bryne, Norway, when little Haaland was about three.

In 2022, Haaland signed to be a team member of Manchester City. He later signed a contract extension in 2025, which means he will be with the team until 2034.