Haaland unveils buzzcut, posting 'New season, new trim'

Erling Haaland revealed a buzzcut on social media as he began the new Premier League season, posting "New season, new trim" on 23 August 2026.

The Manchester City striker shed his familiar blonde locks for a markedly shorter style, one of several notable hair looks referenced alongside the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Gareth Bale. Before the cut, Haaland shared images of previous hairstyles from across his career and showcased some offbeat ideas for the new look. He appeared nervous at the first snip by the hairdresser but was soon smiling at his transformed appearance. The change was presented on video rather than in a public appearance.

Haaland made a series of video calls to teammates and well-known figures to show the result, prompting a range of responses. Oasis' Noel Gallagher told him: "You look about 17 years old. It's good. Change is good." Both Jack Grealish and former City manager Pep Guardiola expressed approval, saying they "love" the change.

Grealish delivered a fuller reaction on the call, saying: "You look about 10 years old. That is hilarious. I can't stop looking at the front of your hair. I love it," while Guardiola added: "No way. You're lucky you have hair. I would love to have it. I love it."

Before contacting Ibrahimovic, Haaland joked that the former Sweden international had advised him against cutting his long hair and explained his own thinking: "Zlatan told me, never cut your hair, because your strength is in you hair. I'm a bit nervous. I want a buzz cut, like in the military." Ibrahimovic responded on the call with: "What did you do? You lost a bet or what? Block me and erase my number," Ibrahimovic said.

The 26‑year‑old has not had short hair since his time at Borussia Dortmund.

Haaland will be hoping his new look brings even more goals as he aims to get off the mark when Enzo Maresca's side face Bournemouth at 14:00 BST on Sunday.