What Could Happen If Barcelona or Real Madrid Target Erling Haaland? Former Man City Star Weighs In
Dietmar Hamann told GOAL there is "always a chance" that Erling Haaland might leave Manchester City if giants like Barcelona or Real Madrid come knocking. While no formal offers have arrived, Haaland’s contract runs until 2034, but eventually he may consider a new challenge away from the Etihad Stadium.
Haaland’s Impact at Manchester City
Following his father Alf Inge’s footsteps, Haaland joined City in summer 2022 amid fierce competition for his signature. The £51 million ($69m) fee now looks like a bargain given his incredible impact. His debut season saw him net 52 goals and help City secure the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League Treble.
Since then, Haaland has smashed records, reaching 100 top-flight English goals faster than anyone else. Though he signed long-term personal terms, nothing guarantees he will stay for the entire duration.
Could Spain Tempt Haaland in 2027?
Rumors linking Haaland to La Liga continue to swirl. By next summer, he will be 27 and finishing his fifth season in Manchester. That might be when the doors open for him at Camp Nou or Santiago Bernabeu.
“Well, he’s won it all, hasn’t he? He won the Champions League, he won the Premier League,” Hamann said. “He’s signed a very long contract, didn’t he? But when Barcelona or Madrid come calling, yeah, I think there’s always a chance. If City says no, with the contract he’s got, it might be tricky because he won’t be cheap either.”
Leadership Changes at Manchester City
Haaland’s current focus remains on helping City, now under manager Enzo Maresca, to win more trophies. With veterans like Bernardo Silva, Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, and Ilkay Gundogan having left, new leaders must emerge.
“When powerful characters leave, others have to step up. Ruben Dias remains the team leader. Gianluigi Donnarumma, though young, has vast experience. They need those figures to guide talented newcomers like Elliot Anderson and Ayyoub Bouaddi, especially as Bouaddi adjusts to a new league,” Hamann explained.
He added that Haaland himself might take on a bigger leadership role since previously some responsibilities were shared with other senior players.
New Arrival Enzo Fernandez Joins City
On transfer deadline day, City secured Argentine World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea for £125 million ($169m), making him one of British football’s most expensive players. Known for his combative style and leadership qualities, Fernandez is expected to be a key figure in midfield alongside the existing squad.
Upcoming Fixtures
Manchester City currently sit atop the Premier League table after winning their first two matches of the 2026-27 season. Their next game is a home match against Frank Lampard’s Coventry team on Saturday.
