Erling Haaland, Manchester City's star striker, took advantage of his rare midweek off by embarking on a solitary fishing expedition to Cornwall following his team's Champions League elimination.
According to The Sun, Haaland was spotted in Newquay on Monday, trying to keep a low profile while enjoying his fishing trip. The Norwegian forward managed to catch a fish during his excursion, much to his satisfaction.
Manchester City's early exit from the Champions League, after a 6-3 aggregate defeat to Real Madrid in the knockout round play-offs, provided Haaland with an unexpected opportunity for leisure - something rarely available during the typically congested fixture schedule of top-flight football.
Local fisherman Dave Trebilcock revealed the secretive nature of the trip, telling The Sun: "It all came about when I was phoned up random one day by another boat operator to take someone out fishing. They couldn't take them out as their boat was on the quay. The trip was top secret. Nearer the time I was told the person I was taking out was a superstar so it was all hush hush."
Despite his attempts to maintain privacy, Haaland's presence delighted locals. Kier Tamblin, who spotted the footballer, shared: "He went on a fishing trip. He seemed to be by himself. He said he caught something but wanted to get out of there quickly before everyone saw him."
One fortunate fan wearing a Manchester City shirt even managed to secure Haaland's signature on his replica jersey, creating a memorable encounter during the striker's brief getaway.
Haaland will now return to Manchester as City prepares for their Premier League fixture against Brighton on Saturday. The defending champions currently sit fifth in the Premier League table, looking to improve their position in the remaining fixtures of the season.
