Long-Term Contracts Like Haaland’s Rare in Modern Football

Erling Haaland's decision to extend his Manchester City contract until 2034, making it a 10-year commitment, stands out in the football world. At just 24 years old, the Norwegian striker had initially been contracted until 2027, but his seven-year extension reflects the growing confidence of the club and the player in their mutual future.

Long-term contracts are rare due to FIFA regulations that cap the standard duration at five years unless local laws permit longer agreements. Yet, clubs like Chelsea, Athletic Club, and Real Sociedad have embraced this approach in recent years, especially to safeguard their young prospects.

Chelsea’s Strategy and Other Notable Extensions

Chelsea has been a notable proponent of long-term deals under the leadership of Todd Boehly’s consortium. Last season, the club renewed Cole Palmer's contract until 2033 and extended Senegalese striker Nicolas Jackson's deal to match that duration.

Additionally, Chelsea secured major signings like Argentina’s Enzo Fernández (until 2032), and Joao Félix and Mykhailo Mudryk (until 2031). These moves underline a strategy aimed at maintaining a strong core of players for the foreseeable future.

Spain has seen fewer such contracts, but clubs like Athletic Club and Real Sociedad are exceptions. Athletic’s Dani Vivian and Oihan Sancet are tied until 2032, while Real Sociedad has secured eight young players, including Ander Barrenetxea and Jon Pacheco, through 2030.

Haaland’s Deal and the Changing Landscape

Haaland’s deal elevates the standard for player-club commitments. The extension aligns with Manchester City’s long-term planning under Pep Guardiola and secures one of the world’s most prolific forwards well into his prime.

Other players with notable long-term contracts include Osasuna’s Jon Moncayola (until 2031) and Villarreal’s Luiz Júnior (2030). At Real Madrid, Endrick and Andriy Lunin have agreements through 2030, while Barcelona lacks any player contracted beyond 2028, with a potential exception for Lamine Yamal.

In the Premier League, Julian Álvarez’s deal with Atlético Madrid (2030) mirrors similar moves, emphasizing the value of locking down rising stars early in their careers.

The Pepelu Case: A Rare Precedent

In Spain, one of the closest parallels to Haaland's extension is Pepelu García, who renewed his contract with Levante in 2022 for 10 years before moving to Valencia with a deal lasting until 2028. Such commitments remain the exception rather than the rule.

Key Points:

• Haaland’s Extension: A groundbreaking 10-year deal keeping him at Manchester City until 2034.
• Rare FIFA Exceptions: Long-term contracts are uncommon due to regulatory limits of five years.
• Chelsea’s Example: Multiple players, including Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernández, signed through 2032 or longer.
• Spanish Clubs: Athletic Club and Real Sociedad lead in securing players with decade-long commitments.
• Notable Comparisons: Similar deals include Jon Moncayola (2031), Endrick (2030), and Pepelu García's former 10-year Levante contract.