Erling Haaland's future would be far from Real Madrid and Barcelona FC

Pep Guardiola’s decision to extend his contract with Manchester City for at least another year has caused a significant shift in the plans of the club’s key players. Stars like Rodri, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, and Kevin De Bruyne had reportedly been considering their futures at the Etihad Stadium, potentially departing at the end of the season, coinciding with Guardiola’s anticipated exit. However, with the Catalan manager’s renewal confirmed, one of the most notable players, Erling Haaland, has reversed his course of action.

Haaland, who had been linked with high-profile clubs such as Barcelona and Real Madrid, has decided to remain in Manchester under Guardiola’s leadership. Talks with Barça’s Joan Laporta and Madrid’s Florentino Pérez had raised hopes of luring the Norwegian striker away from the Premier League. However, Haaland now appears not only committed to City but is also negotiating an extension that would elevate his status as one of the world’s highest-paid footballers.

Haaland’s New Deal in the Works

Since joining Manchester City, Haaland has become a cornerstone of Guardiola’s squad, delivering goals at an extraordinary rate. Guardiola reportedly made the Norwegian’s continued presence a key condition for his own contract renewal. As part of the negotiations, City plans to increase Haaland’s release clause, currently set at €175 million, and significantly boost his salary.

The new contract, which is said to be nearing finalization, will see Haaland’s annual net earnings rise from €24 million to over €30 million, surpassing teammate Kevin De Bruyne as the team’s top earner. The extension solidifies Haaland’s commitment to Guardiola’s project and ends speculation of a potential move to clubs like Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich.

• Current Salary: €24 million net annually, slightly below Kevin De Bruyne’s earnings.
• Proposed Salary: Over €30 million net annually, making him one of the highest-paid footballers globally.
• Release Clause: Set to increase from €175 million, making a transfer significantly more challenging for rival clubs.
• Suitors Turned Away: Barcelona, Real Madrid, PSG, and Bayern Munich had shown interest, but Guardiola’s renewal has ensured Haaland’s stay at City.