Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has described Erling Haaland’s new nine-and-a-half-year contract as "exceptional news" for the reigning Premier League champions.
Haaland, 24, extended his stay at the Etihad Stadium until 2034, surpassing his previous deal set to end in June 2027. The Norwegian striker has been a sensation since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, scoring 111 goals in 126 appearances for City.
Guardiola praised the deal during a press conference ahead of City’s Premier League clash against Ipswich on Sunday. He highlighted Haaland’s commitment as a reflection of his belief in the club’s future.
“It’s exceptional news for all of us,” Guardiola said. “When one player decides to sign this type of contract, never done before, it’s because he wants to show how desperate he is to be here.”
The City boss attributed Haaland’s decision to his love for the club, the Premier League, and his surroundings in Manchester.
“He loves the club, the people he’s around, he loves the Premier League, he loves to be here with his wife and now his father,” Guardiola explained. “I think he visualised that there is no better place that I could be right now in the next 10 years.”
Guardiola also dismissed any concerns about Haaland’s motivation dropping after committing to such a long-term deal.
“I didn’t speak to him about his motivation,” Guardiola said. “I think it’s winning the next game and scoring goals. I don’t have the feeling now he has the contract he will take a nap.”
Haaland played a pivotal role in City’s treble-winning campaign last season, which included the Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup titles. The club also made history with a fourth consecutive Premier League title.
However, City have struggled this season, currently sitting sixth on the league table, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, making a fifth consecutive title unlikely.
Despite this, Guardiola expressed confidence in Haaland’s competitive spirit, stating that the forward is always focused on the next challenge.
City fans will hope Haaland’s long-term commitment can help guide the club back to the top.
