Erling Haaland debuts new hairstyle before Premier League opener

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland debuted a significantly shorter hairstyle on August 23, 2026, just hours before his team's season-opening Premier League match against Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium. The Norwegian international, previously recognized for his signature long blond hair, shared a video and photos on social media documenting the trim, which marks a return to a style he wore earlier in his career at Molde and Borussia Dortmund.

Following the revelation, the striker received humorous reactions from prominent figures. Zlatan Ibrahimovic jokingly questioned if Haaland had lost a bet and suggested deleting his contact information, while former coach Pep Guardiola lightheartedly comforted him by saying the hair would grow back if he did not like the new look. This aesthetic change arrives after Haaland's notable performance during the 2026 World Cup, where he scored seven goals to help Norway reach the quarter-finals. The team is now transitioning into the 2026/27 campaign under manager Enzo Maresca following a loss to Arsenal in the Community Shield.