Haaland says he misses long hair after scoring Manchester City winner

Erling Haaland says he misses his trademark long hair but believes it was time for a change after unveiling a shorter hairstyle this season.

The Manchester City striker was speaking after scoring the only goal in his side’s 1-0 Premier League victory over Coventry City. The result helped City preserve their unbeaten run in the ongoing season.

Haaland has worn his hair considerably shorter since the start of the campaign. Although he admitted he still preferred some aspects of his former style, the Norway international said the new look had proved more convenient.

“It’s much easier. I think it was time for a change. I like it. Of course, I miss my long hair, but it was time for a change and, so far, I’ve enjoyed it. It will grow back and be long again, hopefully,” Haaland told ESPN Brazil, as quoted by Goal.com.

The forward also reflected on Norway’s memorable World Cup victory over Brazil, a match in which he scored twice.

Haaland said the result carried particular significance because of the two countries’ previous meetings at the tournament. Norway’s last World Cup appearance had also featured a match against Brazil, while Norway remains the only team Brazil have never beaten.

“It was a special game for Norway, because the last time we played in the World Cup we also played against Brazil, and Norway is the only team Brazil has never beaten. So it was special,” he said.

“Of course it was a special game. We won; it was amazing. It was the best match we’ve played in our history because of the way we controlled the game. It’s special to play against a great nation, the country of football, where everyone is passionate about the sport. It was special; it’s a great memory, and, once again, sorry. Sorry for the defeat, but that’s football,” he added.

Haaland was also asked about Manchester City’s reshaped squad, with the club having recruited several players during the summer as they seek to build a strong group for the new season.

He backed the new arrivals to adapt quickly, pointing to the experience already possessed by Enzo Fernandez and Elliot Anderson.

“Time will tell. We have a lot of new players who know the level. Enzo Fernandez knows what it takes to win titles, was already playing in the Premier League, and slotted straight into the team,” he said.

“The same with Elliot Anderson. He played in the Premier League for a long time and has played for the England national team, so he knows what it’s like to play for a big club,” Haaland added.

City now face a demanding run of fixtures, beginning with European competition before a Manchester derby and a Carabao Cup tie against Norwich City.

The original image accompanying the report shows Haaland, representing Norway, adjusting his hair during the quarter-final match against England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Miami Stadium. The image is credited to Xinhua via IANS.