Manchester City star Erling Haaland looks unrecognizable after cutting off luscious locks post-World Cup

Erling Haaland cemented himself as an international superstar while playing for Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Manchester City star of the English Premier League endeared himself to fans. Haaland, known for his happy-go-lucky attitude and long hair, became a favorite in the United States.

Now, he is preparing for his EPL campaign with Manchester City with a new haircut, per Marc Stein.

A much better pic from someone in the stadium who can actually take a pic … https://t.co/WH25F9r6gp

— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) August 23, 2026

Haaland spoke about the change before the Manchester City fixture against Bournemouth, per Sam Joseph and Sam Lee of The Athletic.

“This beautiful blonde hair…time to let it go,” Haaland said. “I was thinking about doing it straight 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. The only thing is, Zlatan (Ibrahimovic) told me never cut your hair, because your strength is in your hair.  You know what, the vikings, they go short as well,”

Ibrahimovic, who was also a prolific scorer in his career and was in the studio for much of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was not thrilled with the change.

“What the f–k did you do?” said the former Sweden striker. “You lost a bet or what? Block me and erase my number!”

Even his former manager, Pep Guardiola, was shocked by the move.

“You are lucky you have hair! I would love to have it!” Guardiola joked.

Maybe the hair was giving Haaland superpowers, as Zlatan believed. Manchester City is down in the second half to Bournemouth, 1-0. Haaland has three shots, but just one that has found the target so far.

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