Amid the buzz surrounding Erling Haaland’s remarkable start to the season, it’s easy to overlook one key fact: he’s still at Manchester City, and that might be just as impressive as his goal tally. With seven goals in his first three Premier League games, Haaland’s lethal form is undeniable, but the real surprise is City’s ability to hold onto him for this long.
Back in 2022, the football world expected Haaland’s time in Manchester to be short-lived. In both Munich and Madrid, the prevailing belief was that City would be nothing more than a stepping stone before Haaland moved on to one of Europe’s football giants. Even Haaland’s father, Alfie, suggested at the time that his son wanted to experience playing in every major European league.
Yet, despite all the speculation that has swirled since his arrival, this past summer has been notably quiet on the Haaland front. As if in one of his famed meditation sessions, the Norwegian striker exuded calm, captaining City during their U.S. pre-season tour and constantly smiling as he trained at the City Football Academy.
The fact that Haaland has stayed this long is a massive positive for City. According to reports from Marca, there’s even a possibility that he’s close to signing a new deal with the club. While some in Spain are excited by a rumored exit clause that could benefit Real Madrid, any announcement of a new contract for Haaland would be a significant coup for City, especially since last year’s negotiations didn’t make much headway.
From the moment Haaland arrived in Manchester, City’s sporting director Txiki Begiristain and manager Pep Guardiola were well aware of the situation with their new star, especially given his powerful representation. First managed by the late Mino Raiola and now by the highly influential Rafaela Pimenta, Haaland has always been seen as the master of his own fate. As Pimenta herself stated, “Erling is the master of his own destiny, always. He will always do what’s good for him and for Man City. When they all are open to make a change, it will happen.”
This approach aligns with City’s philosophy, as they have never stood in the way of players who want to move on, from Leroy Sane to Gabriel Jesus, and even Julian Alvarez. Guardiola’s policy is clear: he doesn’t want unhappy players at his club. Pimenta shares the same view, ensuring her clients are satisfied wherever they are playing.
Despite the lure of other clubs, City has proven adept at keeping their top talent content. Players like Ruben Dias have made it a personal mission to convince teammates like Bernardo Silva to stay at the Etihad, even when major offers come in.
While it’s inevitable that Haaland will eventually leave Manchester, there’s no need for concern as long as he remains happy—and judging by his current demeanor, City fans have little to worry about for now. Haaland is thriving, and as long as that continues, his future at City looks secure, regardless of contract negotiations.
