Erling Haaland has signed a historic 9.5-year contract extension with Manchester City, keeping the Norwegian striker at the Etihad Stadium until 2034. The Premier League champions announced the deal on Friday, marking the longest contract ever seen in the league.
Haaland, 24, was initially under contract until June 2027, but his new agreement cements his commitment to the club for another decade. The striker is now reportedly earning around £500,000 ($610,000) per week, further solidifying his status as one of the sport’s highest earners.
A celebratory post on the club’s official X account read: “Erling’s here to stay! We’re thrilled to announce Erling Haaland has extended his contract at City to 2034.”
A Remarkable Record
Since joining Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, Haaland has been a transformative figure. He has scored an astonishing 111 goals in 126 appearances, helping the club achieve unprecedented success, including a historic treble of the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in his debut season.
The Norwegian striker, previously linked with a potential move to Real Madrid, expressed his loyalty to City following the announcement.
“I am really happy to have signed my new contract and to look forward to spending even more time at this great club,” Haaland said. “Manchester City is a special place, full of incredible people and amazing supporters. This is the kind of environment that brings out the best in everyone.”
Haaland also credited manager Pep Guardiola, the coaching staff, and his teammates for their role in his development. “They’ve made this club feel like home, and now I can confidently say I am City no matter what,” he added.
Praise from the Top
City’s outgoing director of football, Txiki Begiristain, highlighted Haaland’s immense contributions and potential.
“Erling has made an incredible impact since his arrival,” said Begiristain. “Beyond his natural talent, his dedication, professionalism, and hunger to improve represent everything we value at Manchester City.”
Begiristain emphasized that at just 24 years old, Haaland’s best years are still ahead of him. “Under Pep’s guidance, Erling has the potential to leave an extraordinary legacy at this club,” he concluded.
Breaking Records and Facing Challenges
In his first season with City, Haaland shattered the Premier League’s single-season scoring record with 36 goals, surpassing the previous record set by Alan Shearer and Andy Cole. Across all competitions, he netted 52 goals, driving City to their treble triumph.
Haaland’s prolific scoring continued last season, contributing 38 goals as City secured a fourth consecutive Premier League title. With his extended tenure, Haaland is well-positioned to challenge Shearer’s all-time record of 260 Premier League goals.
Commitment Amid Turbulence
The timing of Haaland’s extension comes as City face a challenging season. The club is currently sixth in the Premier League, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, and is likely out of the title race.
Despite the struggles, Haaland remains optimistic. “I’m confident we’ll turn things around,” he said. “Challenges like this make us hungrier and stronger. I’ll do everything I can to help us get back to where we belong.”
The extension also reflects Haaland’s trust in the club during a period of uncertainty. City is awaiting the outcome of an independent commission’s investigation into alleged breaches of Premier League financial rules, accusations the club has vehemently denied.
Haaland’s commitment, along with Guardiola’s recent two-year contract renewal, signals stability and ambition as City aims to overcome its current hurdles and build a bright future.