Manchester City’s Erling Haaland made the most unexpected change ahead of the Cityzens’ Premier League season opener
Erling Haaland has surprised fans with a dramatic change to his appearance ahead of Manchester City’s opening Premier League fixture of the 2026/27 season.
The Norwegian striker has ditched his trademark long, tied-back hairstyle for a much shorter cut reminiscent of the look he sported during his Borussia Dortmund days.
The 26-year-old unveiled his new hairstyle on social media on Sunday morning, shortly before Manchester City welcomed Bournemouth in their first league game of the campaign.Haaland also shared images showing the different stages of his haircut, accompanying the post with the caption: “New hair don’t care.”
The change marks a significant departure from the hairstyle he has maintained in recent years. Interestingly, Haaland previously revealed that his long hair was inspired by advice from former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
In a July interview with Fox Sports, the City forward recalled Ibrahimovic telling him: “Never cut your hair because the strength is in the hair.”
Haaland has now seemingly decided to ignore that advice as he begins a new chapter with Manchester City.
New hair, new era at Manchester City
Haaland’s fresh appearance comes at the beginning of a new era for City following Pep Guardiola’s departure after more than a decade in charge.
Enzo Maresca has taken over as head coach and is preparing for his first Premier League campaign at the Etihad, with Haaland expected to remain the focal point of his attack.
The striker enters the season with his reputation stronger than ever after an impressive 2026 World Cup campaign with Norway.
Haaland scored seven goals as Norway reached the quarter-finals, while his performances also helped him gain more than 32 million Instagram followers during the tournament. That growing global profile has made the striker one of football’s biggest personalities, both on and off the pitch.
After City suffered a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield, Haaland will now be expected to lead the response as Maresca begins his reign.