Erling Haaland was joined by Man City team-mates Ilkay Gundogan and Josko Gvardiol as well as a number of EFL players as they surprised kids at a photoshoot
Erling Haaland disguises as camera crew and surprises fans
Erling Haaland stunned young fans by disguising himself as part of a camera crew—complete with a fake moustache—during a photoshoot for Kellogg’s new football kit, created to celebrate the return of its summer football camps for kids. The Norwegian striker arrived incognito at the shoot, catching the children completely by surprise.
He wasn’t alone in the playful stunt. Haaland was joined by Manchester City teammates İlkay Gündoğan and Joško Gvardiol, as well as EFL players Ellis Simms (Coventry City), Jay Stansfield (Birmingham City), and Will Grigg (Chesterfield, League Two). The atmosphere turned to one of excitement when Haaland dramatically removed his fake moustache, and unveiled his true identity.
The children were attending the photoshoot to showcase the new Kellogg’s PUMA shirt and help announce the return of the football camps, which are aimed at kids aged 5-15. The camps, delivered in partnership with the EFL, Manchester City, Celtic, and Rangers, offer over 30,000 free places at more than 70 football clubs nationwide, supporting parents in keeping their children active throughout the summer.
Reflecting on the importance of football in his own childhood, Manchester City midfielder İlkay Gündoğan said: “Sharing the same journey and special moments on the pitch brought us closer, and some of those friendships have lasted a lifetime. I really enjoy that, because it shows just how much football can teach – especially for kids growing up.”
Will Grigg, Northern Ireland international and Chesterfield goalscorer, said: “It’s so important for kids to be active, not just to stay healthy but because of the social benefits that playing sport can bring. Growing up, playing football gave me the opportunity to make new friends, feel part of a team and develop a sense of identity.”
As part of the launch, Kellogg’s surveyed 1,000 parents and found 78% worry about keeping their children entertained during the school holidays.
According to the research, one in five (19%) children are active for an hour or less a day during the summer break. Parents cited excessive screen time and the rising cost of activities as key challenges to getting them out more.
The research, which was carried out by OnePoll, also found 57% believe football is the most influential sport for the next generation. More than seven in 10 (71%) say it keeps children active and healthy, while 67% believe it teaches teamwork and social skills, and 66% say it helps build confidence.
Chris Silcock, MD at Kellogg’s, which is giving parents the chance to sign up to the camps on its website, added: “The UK is football mad and we know that this love for the beautiful game starts from a young age.
“Our camps give kids the chance to get outside this summer and follow in the footsteps of their footballing heroes, guided by FA-qualified coaches – they also help take the summer holiday pressure off parents.
“Our goal is to give as many children as possible across the country the opportunity to stay active this summer through football, with the camps launching at more than 150 locations across the UK, most families will find a camp near them.”