Erling Haaland cuts off his signature long hair ahead of new Premier League season

Erling Haaland has shocked fans by saying goodbye to his signature long blonde hair, debuting a dramatic buzzcut ahead of the new Premier League season.

The Manchester City striker, 26, revealed his new look on Instagram on August 23, sharing a video of himself during the haircut with the caption, "New season, new trim."

Haaland also documented the transformation in a YouTube video, explaining that he had been considering cutting his hair since the 2026 World Cup. He ultimately delayed the decision because of his busy schedule, but decided it was time for a change as the new football season approached.

The striker admitted that he was slightly nervous about losing the hairstyle that has become one of his most recognisable features. He recalled advice from Swedish football legend Zlatan Ibrahimović, one of his sporting idols, who had previously told him not to cut his hair because it was a source of strength.

Haaland then began showing the new look to some of the people closest to him, including former Manchester City teammate Jack Grealish and Ibrahimović, whose reactions were considerably less predictable.

Grealish joked that Haaland suddenly looked much younger, while Ibrahimović responded with a typically blunt question about whether he had lost a bet.

The transformation marks a major change for a player whose long blonde hair and trademark ponytail have become closely associated with his image since his breakthrough at Borussia Dortmund and subsequent move to Manchester City.

Haaland's hair has even become part of his wider public persona. During the 2026 World Cup, he attracted attention not only for his performances for Norway but also for the distinctive hairstyle that had become instantly recognisable to football fans around the world.

The striker recently also responded to a young Brazilian fan who had been bullied for having long hair similar to his own. Haaland encouraged the boy to embrace his hairstyle rather than allow other people's opinions to affect him.

Now, however, Haaland himself has opted for the complete opposite look. The buzzcut has already generated a huge reaction online, with fans debating whether the new style suits him and joking about whether he has sacrificed the "Viking" look that became part of his football identity.

The haircut comes just as Haaland prepares for another season with Manchester City. After years of the same distinctive hairstyle, the striker appears ready to begin the campaign with a fresh look, even if it means leaving his famous locks behind.