Haaland Shaves Off Iconic Blond Mane Ahead of Manchester City Season Opener

A video, a few phone calls and a chain reaction on social media. That's how Erling Haaland announced he was leaving his blond mane behind just before Manchester City's Premier League opener. The Norwegian striker said goodbye to his signature long hair in favor of a close buzz cut, and he wanted to share the surprise with some of his closest friends and former teammates.

It's worth remembering where all this fuss started. Haaland was one of the breakout viral stars of the 2026 World Cup, leading Norway to a surprise run to the quarterfinals while fans in the stands rowed like Vikings. That image, combined with his unmistakable hair, sparked a curious craze: blond wigs, memes of his distinctive running style and even a lookalike contest held in Miami during his time in the United States.

Well, that contest may need an update. The new look was captured in a video Haaland posted himself, showing him video-calling various familiar faces to reveal the change. Noel Gallagher of Oasis took the news in stride with a laugh, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic couldn't hide his shock. His City teammate Jack Grealish didn't hold back with the jokes.

You look about 10 years old!Jack Grealish

The last call was perhaps the most meaningful: his former manager, Pep Guardiola, with whom Haaland spent three seasons at City. The Catalan coach's reaction didn't disappoint.

No way! You're lucky to have hair. I'd love to have that.Pep Guardiola

A Season of Changes for Haaland

The haircut arrives at a time of transition for the Scandinavian forward. Haaland became the Premier League's top scorer in three of his four seasons since arriving at City in July 2022, but this will be the first time he heads into a full season without Guardiola on the sideline. The Spanish coach stepped down last summer and was replaced by former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca.

The start under Maresca wasn't the dream debut: City fell 3-0 to Arsenal in the Community Shield last weekend, a result that raised some questions ahead of the official start of the league campaign. Now, with a fresh haircut and the viral spectacle already behind him, Haaland and his teammates have a chance to start on the right foot: City opens its Premier League season at home on Sunday against Bournemouth.