Haaland ditches iconic hair for new City season under Maresca

Erling Haaland debuted a buzz cut ahead of Manchester City's 2026/27 Premier League campaign, sparking immediate fan reaction as the Norwegian striker begins life under new manager Enzo Maresca. On Sunday, Haaland shared a YouTube vlog showing himself cutting his long blonde hair, calling it a fresh start ahead of the season opener. Zlatan Ibrahimovic was less than impressed, joking he should be blocked and have his number erased, while Jack Grealish quipped Haaland looked about 10 years old. Pep Guardiola, Haaland's former boss, was predictably stunned by the change, telling Haaland he was lucky to have hair and would love to have it himself.

Haaland's first season without Guardiola ends in defeat

Haaland embarks on his first Premier League campaign without Pep Guardiola, who stepped down last summer after a decade at the Etihad. The Norwegian international was an unused substitute as City suffered a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield last weekend. Things improved slightly on Sunday as City came from behind with two late goals to beat AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League opener, though Haaland did not feature on the scoresheet.

Haaland leads City's wage bill in 2026/27

Erling Haaland tops Manchester City's player salary list for the 2026/27 season, earning £525,000 per week according to data from Capology and Spotrac. The Norwegian goal machine leads a top earners list that includes Omar Marmoush on £295,000 per week and Phil Foden on £280,000 per week. A group of seven players, including Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol, share third place on £250,000 per week.

Jaylen Brown believes Haaland could shine in basketball

Following Haaland's impressive performances at the 2026 World Cup, Philadelphia 76ers star Jaylen Brown expressed regret the footballer did not pursue basketball, noting Haaland's 1.95m frame and athletic ability could have made him successful on the court. Brown, who transferred to the 76ers from the Boston Celtics in July 2026, said he was at the game when Brazil played Norway at the World Cup and Haaland went crazy.

The Viking era ends with the chop

Haaland explained he had planned to cut his hair after the 2026 World Cup but was too busy, finally deciding on a fresh start ahead of the new season. The striker joked about his Viking roots, noting Vikings go short as well, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic warned him never to cut it because strength is in the hair. Haaland Facetimed his mentor after the chop, who reacted with disbelief asking what he had done and suggesting he block him and erase his number.