Erling Haaland Hair Cut Revealed Ahead of Man City Opener

Erling Haaland has given Manchester City fans something unexpected before the new Premier League campaign, swapping his familiar long blond hair for a sharply cut military-style buzz cut.

The Norway striker, 26, revealed the transformation on his YouTube channel ahead of City's opening fixture against Bournemouth on Sunday. His long hair has been closely linked with his Viking-inspired image since his arrival at the top level, making the sudden change stand out.

Haaland described the haircut as a fresh start with the new campaign getting underway.

“This beautiful long hair, time to let it go,” he said.

He explained that he had considered cutting it after the World Cup but never found the right time because of his schedule. With the new season beginning, Haaland decided the moment had finally arrived.

“I was thinking of doing it after the World Cup but I was so busy so I didn’t do it. The season starts now so it’s time to get a fresh start.”

Zlatan's Advice Did Not Stop Haaland

Erling Haaland also recalled advice from Zlatan Ibrahimovic, another renowned striker who has previously sported long hair.

According to Haaland, Ibrahimovic had told him never to cut it because his strength was in his hair, a reference to the biblical story of Samson.

The advice clearly did not settle the matter for Haaland, who has now gone in the opposite direction with his latest style.

His YouTube video also featured reactions from several familiar faces. Girlfriend Isabel Haugseng Johansen was among those surprised by the change, while former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, City teammate Jack Grealish, lifelong supporter Noel Gallagher and Ibrahimovic also appeared.

The new hairstyle has quickly given fans another talking point before Haaland begins another campaign in Manchester City colours.

For a player whose appearance has become almost as recognisable as his powerful finishing, the change is certainly hard to miss. The Erling Haaland new look is dramatically different, but City supporters will have one simple concern once the season starts.

They will want the goals to look exactly the same.