Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has debuted a dramatic new buzz cut, parting ways with the long blonde hair and signature braids that served as his visual trademark on the pitch, according to recent video footage released by the player.
The 26-year-old Norway international revealed the complete transformation in a nearly seven-minute video published on his YouTube channel. Haaland explained that while he initially considered the drastic haircut following the World Cup, a busy schedule forced him to delay the change until the start of the new season.
Inside Haaland’s Radical Restyle
The forward admitted that not even his parents or sister were informed of his plans prior to the haircut. In the video, Haaland can be seen parting with his long locks, comparing the desired length to a military-style buzz cut.
Before committing to the trim, Haaland consulted with Swedish football icon Zlatan Ibrahimović, who was famously known for his own signature ponytail during his storied career. According to Haaland, Ibrahimović jokingly warned him not to cut his hair, telling him that “the strength is in the hair.” Despite the playful warning from the veteran striker, Haaland proceeded with the radical style change.
Reactions from Football Figures and Fans
Following the transformation, Haaland documented a series of video calls with notable football and entertainment figures. Former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola laughed upon seeing his former player’s new look, joking about the forward’s fortune in still having hair while patting his own bald head. Musician and prominent City supporter Noel Gallagher remarked that the striker resembled a 17-year-old following the cut.
Ibrahimović offered a characteristically sharp reaction during their video call, jokingly asking if Haaland had lost a bet before telling him to block his number. Meanwhile, fan reactions across social media varied widely, with some expressing disbelief at the sudden change and others questioning what it might mean for his on-pitch presence.
During the World Cup, Haaland experienced significant growth in his social media following, pushing his Instagram audience from nearly 41 million to over 76 million users. With the new look now public, the striker noted that he anticipates hearing new chants from supporters referencing his altered appearance as domestic competition resumes.
