Erling Haaland has debuted a new hairstyle ahead of Manchester City's Premier League curtain-raiser against Bournemouth. His flowing blond mane is gone, replaced by a sharp buzz cut, much to the surprise of Pep Guardiola and Jack Grealish.
Haaland shared a series of snaps documenting his trip to the barber's chair, giving followers a full reveal of the finished result. There were perhaps a few raised eyebrows when Haaland initially unveiled a curtains-style cut midway through the session. However, the end product was a neat finish that will lighten the load up top.
Haaland's new look revealed on social media
The Premier League superstar took to Instagram with two posts to show off his new look, declaring: "Short hair, don't care" and "New season, new trim." Haaland has also uploaded a YouTube video capturing the whole experience. At the outset, he said: "This beautiful blond hair, time to let it go. I was thinking about doing it straight after the World Cup but it was so busy so I didn't do it. The season starts now so it's time to get a fresh start and everything."
"The only thing is Zlatan (Ibrahimovic) told me to 'never cut your hair because your strength is in your hair'. I'm a bit nervous. I want a buzz cut like I've been in the military."
Reactions from Guardiola, Grealish and Ibrahimovic
Former City manager Pep Guardiola was pulled away from watching Tottenham vs Brentford as Haaland gave him a call following his haircut. "No way," said the Catalan coach. "You're lucky you have hair, I'd love to have it. Look if you don't like it, it will grow out."
Jack Grealish was contacted and kicked off his call with a chuckle. "Nah. You look about 10 years old. Oh my. I can't stop looking at the front of your head, I swear. I love it." Haaland then rang Ibrahimovic. The Swede was far from impressed. "What the f** did you do? You lost a bet or what? Oh my god, block me and erase my number. My wife says you are crazy."
Gallagher reacts and Haaland prepares for Bournemouth clash
Also among the first to catch a glimpse of Haaland's transformed look was Oasis star Noel Gallagher. The City frontman rang Gallagher on FaceTime, leaving the rock star unable to contain his laughter. "No way. Yes mate, when have you got that done? You look about 17 years old. Change is good, I won't tell anyone."
Having gone under the scissors on Saturday, Haaland will line up against Bournemouth as Enzo Maresca takes the reins at City in the Premier League for the very first time. Haaland and his teammates welcome the Cherries to the Etihad Stadium, eager to hit the ground running this season.
