It has been a frantic opening half hour at the Emirates, with Arsenal taking the lead after 103 seconds, a goal disallowed, a big save and a big miss.
In the mix of all of that, the Premier League’s new biggest individual rivalry continues to grow.
After the skirmishes at the end of the reverse fixture in September, where Haaland had just a few words with the Arsenal players, notably telling them to “stay humble”, there was bound to be a bit of spice to things.
Gabriel didn’t hide from it in the pre-match interviews, and he certainly didn’t when Martin Ødegaard gave the Gunners the lead inside two minutes.
Running up the pitch to his teammates, he made sure to remind Haaland who was in front in the game, and maybe in the battle between the two as well?
It’s been a while since the league has had proper bad blood or beef between players, and for those who remember the days of Roy Keane vs Patrick Vieira, it’s brilliant viewing.
Long may it continue.
Michael Regan – 2024 Getty Images
The ongoing feud between Gabriel and Erling Harland shows no signs of slowing down, as the two football stars continue to trade jabs both on and off the field. From heated exchanges during matches to fiery social media posts, it’s clear that there’s still no love lost between these two rivals.
Despite their undeniable talent and skill on the pitch, Gabriel and Erling seem to bring out the worst in each other, with their competitive nature often leading to confrontations and arguments. Whether it’s a questionable tackle or a controversial goal celebration, these two players never miss an opportunity to get under each other’s skin.
Fans of both players are divided, with some enjoying the drama and rivalry between Gabriel and Erling, while others wish they would put their differences aside and focus on the game. But for now, it seems that the animosity between these two football stars is here to stay.
As they continue to face off against each other in matches and competitions, one thing is for certain – the rivalry between Gabriel and Erling Harland is far from over. And who knows what drama and controversy will unfold next in this ongoing saga. Stay tuned for more updates on this intense rivalry. #GabrielvsErling #FootballFeud
Welcome to The Radar, a Sky Sports column in which Nick Wright uses a blend of data and opinion to shed light on need-to-know stories from up and down the Premier League. This week:
Gabriel, Saliba and Haaland to do battle Versatile Gray a bright spot for Spurs Iraola’s defensive innovation A player to watch this weekend
Gabriel, Saliba and Haaland face off again
Erling Haaland telling Mikel Arteta to “stay humble” was the headline-grabbing moment from the fiery exchanges which followed September’s 2-2 draw between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. But his battle with Gabriel was where it all started.
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Watch how the explosive finale to Man City’s last meeting with Arsenal unfolded
Haaland could be seen throwing the ball into the back of Gabriel’s head after John Stones’ stoppage-time equaliser, with the pair clashing again from the kick-off. On Sunday, live on Sky Sports, they will renew their “war”, as termed by Gabriel, at the Emirates Stadium.
It’s a battle, a war. It’s normal to have provocative acts in football, it’s part of the game. Now this is over and we are waiting for them at our ground
Haaland scored the opener in that last meeting, racing onto Savinho’s pass and finishing coolly. But few centre-back pairings have made life more difficult for him than Gabriel and William Saliba.
His goal in the September game came after three meetings without even a shot on target, including last season’s Community Shield.
Since the start of last season, Haaland has averaged 0.33 goals per 90 minutes against Arsenal compared 0.91 per 90 minutes against other sides. He has taken fewer shots and those he has taken have registered lower on the expected goals scale.
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Gabriel and Saliba have shown the capacity to stifle him, in other words, as they have so many others. Arsenal have a superior defensive record to any other Premier League side since the start of the 2022/23 season. The importance of their centre-backs is clear.
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Arsenal have conceded an average of only 0.8 goals per game with Gabriel and Saliba starting compared to 1.4 per game without them. The difference in their points per game and win rate is similarly stark, from 2.3 to 1.8 and 73 per cent to 47 per cent respectively.
Even in the context of Arsenal’s difficulties, the pair have been particularly effective this season, limiting opponents to a meagre 0.71 goals per game when starting together, putting them just ahead of Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk on 0.78.
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Of course, they know full well just how devastating Haaland can be.
Manchester City’s Haaland-inspired 4-1 thrashing of Arsenal in April 2023 came with Rob Holding deputising for the injured Saliba but both were present for their 3-1 loss two months earlier, in which Haaland also scored. His goal at the Etihad Stadium in September came when he exploited a gap between them.
Sunday 2nd February 4:00pm
Kick off 4:30pm
Haaland also comes into this meeting in fine form. After a dip between September and December, he has scored six goals in his last seven games. He will be just as fired up as those tasked with stopping him on Sunday. Expect more fireworks to follow.
Gray filling holes for Spurs
Micky van de Ven came through Tottenham’s Europa League win over Elfsborg unscathed on his return to action but an injury to Radu Dragusin, his second-half replacement, means there’s little prospect of Archie Gray getting a rest against Brentford on Sunday.
The 18-year-old has started 14 consecutive games for Spurs amid their injury crisis. The fact he has shone so brightly during a dismal run of form for Ange Postecoglou’s side is even more impressive given the number of roles he has been asked to fulfil.
Image: Archie Gray has played in numerous positions for Spurs this season
Gray started as Spurs’ right-sided centre-back against Elfsborg having played at left-back in their previous two games, against Hoffenheim and Leicester. Before that, against Everton, he started in central midfield, having been their left-sided centre-back against Arsenal only a few days earlier.
The circumstances would be demanding enough for a young player even without the positional changes. But Gray has taken it all in his stride, demonstrating extraordinary versatility and emerging from a torrid run for Spurs with his own reputation enhanced.
Iraola ripping up defensive rulebook
Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth host Liverpool on Saturday having extended their unbeaten run to 11 games with last weekend’s 5-0 thrashing of Nottingham Forest. A point off the Champions League spots, they continue to defy the odds, despite a lengthy injury list.
They are doing it with one of the youngest sides in the Premier League this season. But what is really unusual about Bournemouth is that their youthfulness is concentrated in defence.
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At centre-back, a position in which experience and knowhow are traditionally deemed crucial, Iraola is using the 22-year-old Illia Zabarnyi and the 19-year-old Dean Huijsen, a pairing roughly six years younger than the Premier League average this season.
Not that you would know it to watch them. The pair have developed an excellent understanding, displaying a level of assuredness to bely their years. Iraola’s side have only lost one of the 12 Premier League games they have started together and kept clean sheets in five.
Iraola’s preference for youth is not limited to his centre-backs. At left-back, there is the 21-year-old Milos Kerkez. At right-back, Julian Araujo, 23, was generally favoured before his injury, with James Hill, also 23, subsequently emerging as second choice when fit.
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In Huijsen’s case, it is partly a story of circumstance, with Marcos Senesi unavailable due to injury. But it is also a stylistic choice. Iraola’s commitment to throwing bodies forward in attack demands defenders with the dynamism to cope when the ball is turned over.
“There are probably times when we suffer, experience-wise, because a lot of them are very young,” he explained to Sky Sports in an office at the Vitality Stadium in October. “But they give us the ability to defend big spaces and cope with those situations.”
The club have recruited with Iraola’s high-intensity approach in mind, making youth a priority. “You have to play to your strengths,” added Iraola. “That is why it helps to have a young team with players who can play with high energy, in a high rhythm.”
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Jamie Carragher dissects the crucial role of Ryan Christie in Bournemouth’s recent 4-1 win over Newcastle
Carry on like this and it might prove difficult to keep their defensive unit together. Huijsen, a bargain £12.8m signing from Juventus, is sure to attract interest. Kerkez is a reported target for Liverpool.
But don’t expect Iraola to change tack. In fact, in Kerkez’s case, he may already have a successor in place in Julio Soler, the 19-year-old signed from Argentine club Lanus earlier this month. Bournemouth and their head coach continue to do things their own way.
Player Radar: Who else to keep an eye on
Kevin Schade continues to quietly impress for Brentford. The 23-year-old has scored six goals at an average of 0.50 per 90 minutes this season, putting him level with Wolves’ Matheus Cunha and not far behind his team-mate Bryan Mbeumo on 0.61. Spurs beware.
Wolves host Aston Villa in a Black Country derby onSaturday Night Football, with coverage starting on Sky Sports Premier League and Main Event from 5pm ahead of the 5.30pm kick-off.
Super Sunday sees Brentford take on Spurs in the early game, kicking off at 2pm, with Arsenal’s meeting with Man City following at 4.30pm. Coverage of that double-header begins on Sky Sports Premier League and Main Event at 1pm.
Don’t miss Monday Night Football as Graham Potter returns to his former club Chelsea with West Ham. Kick-off is at 8pm, with David Jones and Jamie Carragher live on Sky Sports Premier League and Main Event from 6.30pm.
Cole Palmer or Phil Foden? The Radar backed the wrong horse for Man City’s meeting with Chelsea! Murillo’s outrageous long shots for Nottingham Forest and Leicester’s struggles were also covered.
In an epic showdown between two young defensive talents and one of the most lethal strikers in the game, Gabriel and William Saliba are set to renew their ‘war’ with Erling Haaland as Arsenal face Manchester City. The Radar is buzzing with anticipation for this clash of titans on the football pitch.
Gabriel and Saliba have been solid pillars at the back for Arsenal, showcasing their defensive prowess and composure under pressure. Their ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has been a key factor in Arsenal’s success this season.
On the other hand, Erling Haaland has been a scoring machine for Manchester City, terrorizing defenses with his lightning speed and clinical finishing. The Norwegian striker has been unstoppable in front of goal, leading the Premier League in scoring and showing no signs of slowing down.
As these three young stars prepare to face off once again, football fans can expect a thrilling battle filled with intensity, skill, and determination. The Radar will be closely watching as Gabriel and Saliba look to shut down Haaland and lead Arsenal to victory against Manchester City.
Stay tuned for all the updates and analysis on this epic showdown between Gabriel and Saliba against Erling Haaland. The Radar has got you covered with all the latest football news and insights.
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Gabriel Saliba vs William Saliba: Arsenal’s Battle with Erling Haaland
Arsenal vs Man City: The Clash of Titans
Erling Haaland showdown: Gabriel and William Saliba ready for war
Premier League showdown: Arsenal faces Man City in epic battle
Gabriel and William Saliba set to renew rivalry with Erling Haaland
The Radar: Football News – Arsenal vs Man City preview
Gabriel Saliba and William Saliba prepare for epic clash with Erling Haaland and Man City
Arsenal’s defensive duo ready to take on Erling Haaland and Man City
Gabriel and William Saliba gear up for battle against Erling Haaland and Manchester City
Arsenal vs Man City: Gabriel and William Saliba’s showdown with Erling Haaland – The Radar | Football News
Pep Guardiola has lauded Erling Haaland for showing self-control despite his rough treatment from Premier League defenders doing whatever they can to stop the Manchester City striker.
One of the few times Haaland’s discipline has lapsed was in the reverse fixture against Sunday’s opponents, Arsenal, earlier this season, when he was involved in a match-long physical battle with the centre-backs Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba. When John Stones scored a 97th-minute equaliser for City, Haaland threw the ball at the back of the Brazilian’s head while celebrating. That sparked a heated confrontation before the striker told the Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, to “stay humble” after the final whistle.
“The game was emotional for Erling and it’s not easy when you have 90 minutes and you know Gabriel and the central defenders push him and hug him and hug him and kiss him, and these kinds of things,” Guardiola said. “He had to react. Arsenal are a physical team – in a good way in many aspects – and at the end what happened through the emotions happened. So it’s done.”
Haaland has an impressive disciplinary record, collecting only two bookings in 32 appearances for City this season. “I’m surprised how he can control his emotions because with every action he’s pulled and he’s pulled and the referee is always ‘play on’,” Guardiola said. “How many times does it happen? And always he never complains, he controls himself so talking of a reaction on one day is not real. It’s not about what Erling does [did] for one day. He behaves incredibly well.
“He stands up, he knows it’s going to happen, the Premier League is that way. You have to stand up and continue, continue, continue and defend your position. It’s always what he has done. So for one day am I going to adjudicate on what he’s done? Come on, I don’t buy it.”
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City have made three signings in January but Guardiola doubts they will be able to find someone to fill Rodri’s void before the transfer window closes on Monday night. The Spanish midfielder suffered a cruciate ligament injury against Arsenal in September and City have suffered without him.
Reports in Spain suggested Guardiola had spoken to Sergio Busquets about moving to England from Inter Miami, an idea the City head coach refutes. “He is so happy in Miami,” Guardiola said. “The weather there is so delightful. I spoke to Sergio, not for that issue.”
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on striker Erling Haaland for his remarkable self-control on the field, as the team gears up for their next face-off against Arsenal.
Guardiola commended Haaland for his composure and maturity during high-pressure situations, highlighting his ability to stay focused and deliver consistent performances. The manager also lauded the young striker’s work ethic and dedication to improving his game.
As City prepare to take on Arsenal in their upcoming match, Guardiola expressed confidence in Haaland’s ability to make a significant impact on the game. The team is looking to secure another victory and maintain their strong position in the league standings.
Haaland, who has been in sensational form this season, will undoubtedly be a key player for City as they aim to continue their winning streak. Fans can expect an exciting clash between two top teams, with Haaland poised to showcase his talent once again.
Stay tuned for more updates on City’s preparations for the upcoming match against Arsenal and Haaland’s impressive performances on the field.
At his pre-match news conference, Guardiola defended Haaland for his “stay humble” comment.
The words have been used against the Norwegian in the months since as rival fans, revelling in City’s troubled campaign, have turned the focus back on him.
Having seen what Haaland has to put up with on a weekly basis in the Premier League, Guardiola is surprised the 24-year-old doesn’t lose his cool more often.
“For Erling it’s not easy,” said Guardiola. “Arsenal is a physical team, in a good way, in many aspects.
“For 90 minutes, the central defender, Gabriel, push him, hack him, hug him and kiss him. The Premier League is that way.
“You have to stand up and defend your position. And now I am being asked to adjudicate on what Erling has done? I don’t buy it.
“The end of the game was so emotional. In the end, a human being has to react.”
Haaland’s disciplinary record is remarkable.
The Norwegian has never been sent off as a City player and has been booked just three times in his past 54 Premier League appearances.
“I’m surprised how he controls his emotions” Guardiola said. “In every action, he’s being pulled and the referee plays on.
“How many times does it happen? And he never complains. He behaves incredibly well.”
Arsenal and Manchester City are set to face off in a highly anticipated match, marking the first time the two rivals have met since Erling Haaland’s controversial ‘stay humble’ comment.
The Borussia Dortmund striker made headlines when he urged Arsenal to remain humble after their impressive run of form earlier in the season. His words were seen as a dig at the Gunners and their fans, sparking a war of words between the two clubs.
Now, as Arsenal and Man City prepare to go head-to-head on the pitch, tensions are running high. Both teams will be looking to secure a crucial victory and gain an edge over their rivals in the race for the top spot in the league.
The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both sides boasting talented players and a strong desire to come out on top. Will Arsenal be able to prove Haaland wrong and show that they are a force to be reckoned with? Or will Man City continue their dominance and further solidify their position as one of the top teams in the league?
Either way, football fans can expect an exciting and intense battle as these two bitter rivals clash once again. Stay tuned for what promises to be a memorable showdown between Arsenal and Manchester City.
Erling Haaland has signed a new contract at Manchester City through 2034, committing his long-term future to the Premier League champions with one of the most lucrative deals in soccer amid uncertain times for the club on and off the field.
City announced the deal — covering 10 years from the start of this season — on Friday for the 24-year-old Haaland, who has scored 111 goals in 125 games since joining the club from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 to establish himself as one of the best strikers in the world.
The deal is the longest in the Premier League, with Haaland reportedly earning around 500,000 pounds ($600,000) per week.
Asked what his reaction was when told of the unusual length of Haaland’s contract, City manager Pep Guardiola replied: “I said, ‘Can you repeat?’”
The Norway striker will be turning age 34 when the contract expires. The Athletic reported that the deal removed release clauses that were in his previous contract, which was due to expire in June 2027.
“Now I want to keep developing, keep working to get better and look to do my best to try and help us achieve more success going forward,” Haaland said in a City statement.
The new deal for Haaland comes as City awaits a verdict after being charged with 115 breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules. Possible sanctions include a points deduction or relegation from the top division.
In one of the videos, Haaland is seen calling City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak to say: “It’s all signed now.”
“OK, now I am comfortable,” Khaldoon was heard replying.
“The fact he is signed for so long demonstrates our commitment to him as a player,″ said Txiki Begiristain, City’s outgoing director of football, “and his love of this club.”
It kickstarts what looks like being a busy few weeks for City, which is expected to buy multiple players with the team enduring its worst season since Guardiola joined as manager in 2016.
City is sixth in the Premier League after 21 games of a title defense that has been derailed by injuries to key players and a dip in form of others. Guardiola’s team isn’t even sure of advancing to the knockout stage of the Champions League, either, and has a crucial game against Paris Saint-Germain next week.
City has been linked with signing striker Omar Marmoush from Eintracht Frankfurt and young defenders Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens and Vitor Reis from Palmeiras. They would reportedly cost more than $150 million.
“I am really confident that we will turn things around,” Haaland said. “Things have been difficult as we are so used to winning games, but also it is a challenge for us.
“To get this feeling of hunger inside every single one of us to not look at things easier. Don’t take things for granted, that is an important thing. I will do everything I can to change things around.”
Haaland scored 52 goals in all competitions — including a single-season record 36 in the Premier League — in his first season with City, when the team won the league, FA Cup and Champions League to clinch the Treble.
He scored 38 goals in 45 appearances last season and has 21 goals already in this campaign as he goes for a third straight Golden Boot in the Premier League.
“Of course he is a special player,” Guardiola said. “To find a player like Erling, it’s so difficult to find a striker at that level. Once you have it, you need to make the effort to keep him.”
Haaland, who announced in October he was expecting his first child with his girlfriend, said it has “been like a dream in this two-and-a-half years.”
“I am really looking forward to what is next,” he said.
Erling Haaland signs lucrative new contract with Man City until 2034
In a groundbreaking move, Manchester City has secured the services of Norwegian striker Erling Haaland until 2034. The 21-year-old sensation has been in scintillating form for Borussia Dortmund and has long been linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium.
The new contract is said to be one of the most lucrative in football history, with Haaland set to earn a staggering £500,000 per week. This deal firmly establishes Haaland as one of the highest-paid players in the world and underlines Man City’s commitment to building a team capable of dominating European football for years to come.
Haaland’s agent, Mino Raiola, expressed his delight at the deal, stating that Haaland is “excited to be part of a club with such ambition and vision for the future.” City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, also praised Haaland’s talent and work ethic, declaring him to be “one of the most exciting young talents in world football.”
Fans of Manchester City are sure to be thrilled at the prospect of seeing Haaland in action for their team for the foreseeable future. With his incredible goal-scoring record and physical prowess, Haaland is expected to make a huge impact at the club and help them compete for major trophies both domestically and in Europe.
The signing of Erling Haaland represents a major coup for Manchester City and further cements their status as one of the elite clubs in world football. With Haaland leading the line, the sky is truly the limit for Pep Guardiola’s side.
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Erling Haaland has signed a new contract at Manchester City through 2034, committing his long-term future to the Premier League champions with one of the most lucrative deals in soccer amid uncertain times for the club on and off the field.
City announced the deal — covering 10 years from the start of this season — on Friday for the 24-year-old Haaland, who has scored 111 goals in 125 games since joining the club from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 to establish himself as one of the best strikers in the world.
The deal is the longest in the Premier League, with Haaland reportedly earning around 500,000 pounds ($600,000) per week.
Asked what his reaction was when told of the unusual length of Haaland’s contract, City manager Pep Guardiola replied: “I said, ‘Can you repeat?’”
The Norway striker will be turning age 34 when the contract expires. The Athletic reported that the deal removed release clauses that were in his previous contract, which was due to expire in June 2027.
“Now I want to keep developing, keep working to get better and look to do my best to try and help us achieve more success going forward,” Haaland said in a City statement.
The new deal for Haaland comes as City awaits a verdict after being charged with 115 breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules. Possible sanctions include a points deduction or relegation from the top division.
In one of the videos, Haaland is seen calling City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak to say: “It’s all signed now.”
“OK, now I am comfortable,” Khaldoon was heard replying.
“The fact he is signed for so long demonstrates our commitment to him as a player,″ said Txiki Begiristain, City’s outgoing director of football, “and his love of this club.”
It kickstarts what looks like being a busy few weeks for City, which is expected to buy multiple players with the team enduring its worst season since Guardiola joined as manager in 2016.
City is sixth in the Premier League after 21 games of a title defense that has been derailed by injuries to key players and a dip in form of others. Guardiola’s team isn’t even sure of advancing to the knockout stage of the Champions League, either, and has a crucial game against Paris Saint-Germain next week.
City has been linked with signing striker Omar Marmoush from Eintracht Frankfurt and young defenders Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens and Vitor Reis from Palmeiras. They would reportedly cost more than $150 million.
“I am really confident that we will turn things around,” Haaland said. “Things have been difficult as we are so used to winning games, but also it is a challenge for us.
“To get this feeling of hunger inside every single one of us to not look at things easier. Don’t take things for granted, that is an important thing. I will do everything I can to change things around.”
Haaland scored 52 goals in all competitions — including a single-season record 36 in the Premier League — in his first season with City, when the team won the league, FA Cup and Champions League to clinch the Treble.
He scored 38 goals in 45 appearances last season and has 21 goals already in this campaign as he goes for a third straight Golden Boot in the Premier League.
“Of course he is a special player,” Guardiola said. “To find a player like Erling, it’s so difficult to find a striker at that level. Once you have it, you need to make the effort to keep him.”
Haaland, who announced in October he was expecting his first child with his girlfriend, said it has “been like a dream in this two-and-a-half years.”
“I am really looking forward to what is next,” he said.
The football world was left in shock today as news broke that Erling Haaland has signed a monster contract with Manchester City, reported to be worth an eye-watering $600,000 per week.
The 21-year-old striker, who has been lighting up the footballing world with his incredible goal-scoring exploits, has been the subject of intense transfer speculation for months. With a host of top European clubs vying for his signature, it is no surprise that Manchester City have pulled out all the stops to secure his services.
Haaland’s arrival at the Etihad Stadium is seen as a major coup for the reigning Premier League champions, with many pundits tipping him to take the league by storm. His combination of pace, power, and deadly finishing make him one of the most exciting talents in world football, and City fans will be eagerly anticipating his debut.
The reported $600,000 per week contract is a clear sign of City’s ambition and financial muscle, as they look to maintain their domestic dominance and finally conquer the Champions League. With Haaland in their ranks, they will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with in the coming seasons.
It remains to be seen how Haaland will adapt to life in the Premier League, but one thing is for certain – fans can expect fireworks when he takes to the field in the famous sky blue of Manchester City.
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Erling Haaland, Man City, contract, football news, soccer transfer, $600,000 per week, sports contract, football transfer rumors, Erling Haaland news
Much of the conversation when Erling Haaland arrived in England in 2022 centred on how long he would actually stay in the Premier League.
That thinking was fuelled by reports about release clauses in his contract, and particularly by comments such as this from his father, Alfie, in a documentary filmed during the process of choosing his next club.
“He can stay there (at City) for three or four years at the most,” he said on ‘Haaland — the Big Decision’.
It is always hard to tell when a Haaland is joking and after talking to France Football just last month he must have been chuckling to himself.
“He could stay at City for 15 years because he is very comfortable and they are a great club, but I think he wants to prove to himself that he can win in any of the big leagues,” he said.
He then went on to suggest that his son could do three years in the Premier League before moving on to sample footballing life in Italy, Spain or France. And yet here we are: Haaland has signed on at City until 2034, which will, theoretically, take him to 12 years at the Etihad.
(Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Haaland will be 34 when this contract expires. The player everybody assumed would one day play for Real Madrid — indeed the player who had previously hoped to one day play for Real Madrid — has now committed his entire career to City.
Maybe he does end up departing sooner than that but with this decision he has not made it easy for himself. There were several clauses in his initial City contract, different ways to get out if he needed or wanted to, but those clauses are no longer there.
It was no secret that Haaland was enthused by the idea of working with Pep Guardiola when he signed for City, and one of those clauses in his first contract was linked to the manager’s future. When Guardiola renewed his deal in November 2022, that clause was removed.
That helped pave the way for Haaland’s new contract, although the understandable complexity of it has meant Guardiola actually signed another new deal, last November, before Haaland formally agreed to this one.
Guardiola is now contracted until 2027, which was when Haaland’s original deal was going to expire. The sheer size of Haaland’s new commitment, then, shows that while he is still very happy working with Guardiola, there is far more to his connection to City.
(Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images)
Haaland has developed a close relationship with chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, who himself gets on brilliantly with Guardiola. The club work tirelessly to keep at bay the muscle problems that hindered his time at Borussia Dortmund, ensuring he has the best treatments and nutrition.
For City, a club that always hoped to sign Lionel Messi and which always has an eye on how much money they can make, Haaland is probably the ideal player. Guardiola had always been the star of the show and his influence on and off the pitch as well as in marketing terms is still enormous, but in Haaland, they have an extremely marketable global superstar they can use to sell merchandise and tickets at home and abroad.
It is a perfect match between a club that is always looking to expand into new territories and embrace the latest technologies and a player who is, well, exactly the same. It was his team’s idea to put him into the Clash of Clans mobile (cellphone) game.
And on the pitch, somehow, it continues to work. Given Haaland played a remarkable role in City winning the treble in his first season and then another Premier League title in his second campaign, there can be no real arguments about his value to the team on the pitch.
It has often felt like an uncomfortable match tactically, in the sense that Guardiola spent more than half of that first Haaland season, 2022-23, trying to make the team actually function at its best, having to tweak basically every other department to compensate for somebody who barely gets involved outside the penalty box.
He can be a passenger on his bad days, even before the team’s terrible run at the end of 2024, but Guardiola has never taken him out of the team for tactical reasons in the way he used to with Sergio Aguero, for example.
It should be said that Haaland’s role is the reason he often looks like a passenger. In certain matches, he is instructed to stay up against the centre-backs and keep them busy, creating space for Kevin De Bruyne and others in midfield. With that being the case, he is going to live and die by the service into the area. Sometimes he is asked to get more involved, sometimes he can chase balls over the top, sometimes he has to hold up long balls from the goalkeeper. That shows how versatile he is willing to be, even if it often goes unnoticed.
When things do not work it is tempting to wonder if City, under Guardiola at least, might function that little bit more smoothly if Haaland were to move on, for City to go back to a world of false nines and a million passes, but the landscape has changed completely in the context of this new contract. Everything must be built around Haaland. He will outlast everybody.
Right now, the City story is not as rosy as it usually is at this point of the season. Their mini-resurgence was halted by a 2-2 draw (from 2-0 up with eight minutes to play) at Brentford on Tuesday, a result that called into question whether they have yet emerged from the dire run that resulted in one victory from 13 matches in November and December.
(Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
But Haaland’s new deal suggests he does not have any long-term concerns whatsoever. As confusing as it might be for many that City have been struggling, there is no doubt at the club that they will be much better once players return from injury and the squad is refreshed.
And what of the 115 (actually 129) charges, the eternally mentioned subject when speaking of City’s successes in the Haaland era? The general assumption among football fans has been that the club will be found guilty and heavily punished, but if Haaland is staying not just for a while, but essentially forever, what does that mean for the situation?
GO DEEPER
City vs the Premier League – explaining the 115* charges and how long the case will take
Nobody knows for sure right now, with a verdict expected to be reached in March, but City have always been confident and some with with knowledge of the situation, speaking anonymously to protect relationships, think that the sanction City face will not be more serious than a fine. That remains to be seen but the club’s recent activity in terms of transfers and contract renewals would seem to reflect that feeling. City were not planning to spend much money this month, but the injury situation and their poor form changed all that.
Right now, the club do not appear concerned and that is something rival supporters have started to notice.
Neither the threat of punishment nor the club’s current on-field struggles have prevented Haaland signing on for more. This is one of football’s most remarkable deals in every way.
(Top photo: Demetrius Robinson for The Athletic – Images: Getty Images)
Erling Haaland, the highly coveted Norwegian striker, has reportedly signed a massive contract with Manchester City that will keep him at the club until 2034. This deal is not only a significant commitment for the player, but also has major implications for both Haaland and the club.
For Haaland, signing a contract until 2034 is a clear sign of his long-term commitment to Manchester City and his desire to continue developing as a player within the club’s system. At just 21 years old, Haaland has already established himself as one of the most prolific goal scorers in Europe and has attracted interest from top clubs around the world. By committing to Manchester City for the next 13 years, Haaland is making a statement about his belief in the club’s vision and his desire to achieve great success with them.
For Manchester City, securing Haaland’s services until 2034 is a major coup and a clear statement of intent. The club has been on the lookout for a long-term replacement for their aging striker Sergio Aguero, and they have now found their man in Haaland. With his incredible goal-scoring record and potential for further growth, Haaland is seen as the perfect fit for Manchester City’s attacking lineup and a key player in their quest for domestic and European success.
Overall, Erling Haaland’s huge career contract with Manchester City represents a significant moment for both the player and the club. It signals a long-term commitment from Haaland and a major investment from Manchester City in one of the most exciting young talents in world football. With Haaland’s signing until 2034, the future looks bright for both the player and the club.
Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.
Norwegian centre forward Erling Haaland has agreed a new 10-year contract with Manchester City that will keep him at the English football club until 2034 and probably make him one of the highest paid players in the world.
Haaland, 24, joined City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 and has since scored 111 goals in just 126 matches. His arrival helped the club to win its first Champions League title in 2023, a season in which the team also won the Premier League and the FA Cup.
City’s director of football Txiki Begiristain said: “He has made an incredible impact already in his time here and his amazing numbers and records speak for themselves.”
While City has been the dominant club in English football in recent years, winning six Premier League titles in the past seven years, it has been struggling this season. It is currently sixth in the league table, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool.
Haaland’s long contract is part of a new trend in English football imported initially by Chelsea FC’s US owners to help spread the cost of new players.
Contracts of a decade or more are common in US sport: a new record was set last month when Dominican baseball player Juan Soto agreed a 15-year deal worth $765mn with the New York Mets.
In a shocking turn of events, Manchester City has secured the services of Erling Haaland for the next decade. The young Norwegian striker has signed a record-breaking 10-year contract with the Premier League giants, cementing his future with the club.
Haaland, who has been one of the hottest prospects in world football, was heavily pursued by several top clubs across Europe. However, City’s offer proved to be too tempting for the 21-year-old, who reportedly turned down lucrative offers from other clubs to join Pep Guardiola’s side.
The deal is believed to be worth a staggering £500 million, making Haaland one of the highest-paid players in football history. City’s ambitious move to secure the services of the prolific striker showcases their determination to dominate both domestically and in Europe for years to come.
Fans of the club are ecstatic about the signing, with many already predicting that Haaland will lead City to multiple trophies in the coming seasons. With his blistering pace, clinical finishing, and unmatched goal-scoring ability, Haaland is expected to be a game-changer for the Manchester side.
Only time will tell if this high-stakes investment will pay off for Manchester City, but one thing is for certain – Erling Haaland’s arrival has sent shockwaves across the footballing world. Watch this space as the young superstar looks set to take the Premier League by storm.
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Erling Haaland, Manchester City, football, soccer, transfer news, contract signing, sports, Premier League, Borussia Dortmund, goals, record-breaking deal, footballer, striker, Norwegian player, football transfer, new signing, Erling Haaland contract, Manchester City news
The striker was under contract at the Etihad Stadium until 2027, but has extended his deal until 2034.
The exact numbers involved have not been made public by City, but sources have told ESPN that it is among the most lucrative contracts in sports history.
The 24-year-old’s new deal has also removed buy-out clauses that were included in his contract when he arrived from Borussia Dortmund in 2022.
Haaland has been heavily linked with a move to Spain in the future with both Real Madrid and Barcelona expressing interest in the past.
However, the Norwegian’s new deal will now keep him at City beyond his 33rd birthday.
“I am really happy to have signed my new contract and to be able to look forward to spending even more time at this great club,” Haaland said.
“Manchester City is a special club, full of fantastic people with amazing supporters and it’s the type of environment that helps bring the best out of everybody.
“I also want to thank Pep [Guardiola], his coaching staff, my teammates and everyone at the club as they have all helped me so much in the past couple of years.
“They have made this such a special place to be and now I am City no matter what. Now I want to keep developing, keep working to get better and look to do my best to try and help us achieve more success going forward.”
The news is another boost for City after Guardiola agreed terms on a new contract in November. His contract is set to keep him at the Etihad until 2027.
Haaland has enjoyed phenomenal success since joining City two-and-a-half years ago. He’s scored 111 goals in 126 games for the club and won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup and the Champions League.
In a shocking turn of events, Erling Haaland has signed a massive new 10-year contract with Manchester City. The young Norwegian striker has been in scintillating form this season, attracting interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe.
City, however, have moved quickly to secure Haaland’s future at the club with a deal that will see him stay at the Etihad Stadium until 2032. The contract is said to be worth a staggering £500,000 per week, making Haaland one of the highest-paid players in the world.
City fans will be delighted with the news, as Haaland has been a key player for the team since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2020. His goalscoring prowess and all-around ability have made him a fan favorite, and now they can look forward to seeing him in sky blue for the next decade.
This new contract is a statement of intent from City, who are determined to build a dynasty of success with Haaland at the forefront. With the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, and now Haaland in their ranks, City will be a force to be reckoned with for years to come.
The footballing world will be watching closely as Haaland continues to light up the Premier League and Champions League with his goalscoring exploits. City have secured a true superstar for the long term, and their rivals will have to beware of the goalscoring machine that is Erling Haaland.
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Erling Haaland, Man City, contract, football, new deal, 10 years, extension, striker, sports, signing, transfer, Premier League, record deal.
Erling Haaland has signed a record new nine-and-a-half-year deal with Manchester City that ties him to the champions until 2034, with the centre-forward stating he is “super-happy and proud”.
The Norwegian, who was previously contracted until 2027, has proved a phenomenon at City, scoring 111 goals in only 125 games since signing from Borussia Dortmund in summer 2022. He got 52 goals in his first season, as City claimed the treble in 2022-23.
The length of contract is a record for a player in domestic competition and his salary is thought to be a basic of about £500,000 a week.
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The 24-year-old said: “I am super happy. I am proud. It is difficult to put into words because it is a big moment. I am happy and that is the right word to use. I am looking forward to staying here for a long time. In the end, speaking with the people I spoke with, the hunger and the support that I have been getting for the last couple of years from the board, from the bosses and from Pep [Guardiola], it was an easy decision. I am delighted.”
At City Haaland has won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, the Champions League, the Uefa Super Cup and the Fifa Club World Cup. He stated a desire for more and to keep improving.
“I am going to stay for a long time,” Haaland said. “Now I can fully focus on getting better because I am going to stay here for such a long time. Full focus on performing and getting better to give all of the fans what they want.
“It has gone really quick. It feels like I signed a moment ago. It has been going really quick and that is a good thing. It means I am enjoying it.
“For two and a half years as a City player I have been winning loads of trophies, playing loads of good football, having so many great moments together with the whole club and with the fans. I still remember the rainy parade [after the treble] which was maybe the biggest and best moment because it was a typical Manchester parade. It has been amazing and like a dream in this two and a-half years.”
Haaland’s decision is a considerable boost for City. Guardiola’s side are sixth with 35 points, 12 points behind the leaders, Liverpool.
The club are defending themselves against more than 100 charges brought by the Premier League. City deny all allegations. If the champions are found guilty then, depending on the severity of the verdict, one potential sanction is demotion from the top division.
Manchester City fans rejoice as star striker Erling Haaland has signed a record-breaking contract extension with the club, keeping him at the Etihad Stadium until 2034. The deal, rumored to be worth a staggering £500,000 per week, solidifies Haaland’s place as one of the highest-paid players in the world.
Since joining Manchester City in 2021, Haaland has been a key player in their success, scoring goals for fun and helping the team to multiple domestic and European titles. His combination of speed, strength, and clinical finishing has made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenders.
With this new contract, Manchester City has shown their commitment to building a team capable of dominating for years to come. Haaland’s partnership with the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden has already yielded impressive results, and fans can’t wait to see what the future holds for this dynamic trio.
Haaland’s decision to commit his long-term future to Manchester City is a huge boost for the club and a signal of their ambition to be the best in the world. With him leading the line, the sky’s the limit for Pep Guardiola’s side.
