Scholes names Barcelona in Haaland future debate

Paul Scholes believes Barcelona could be the next destination for Erling Haaland if the Manchester City striker ever leaves the club.

The former Manchester United midfielder was asked on the podcast The Good, The Bad & The Football where he expected Haaland to move if Manchester City were relegated from the Premier League as a result of their financial regulations case.

Scholes selected Barcelona, despite acknowledging that the Norway international might appear more naturally suited to their La Liga rivals Real Madrid.

“Barcelona,” Scholes said, as reported by Catalan newspaper Sport. “Although he looks like a player who would suit Real Madrid, and I can completely imagine him in the famous white shirt, he will move to Barcelona.”

Manchester City have appealed against the decision relating to alleged financial breaches. The club could face sporting sanctions, potentially including administrative relegation, and such an outcome could have consequences for the futures of several key players.

Haaland, however, remains tied to Manchester City on a long-term contract running until June 2034. He signed a new 10-season deal in January 2025, underlining the club’s intention to retain their leading striker for as long as possible.

The Norwegian’s contract does not contain a release clause or a provision allowing him to leave for a fixed fee. Sport reported that a significant punishment for Manchester City could nevertheless lead to a range of possible scenarios concerning Haaland’s future.

Butt considers Haaland family’s role

Nicky Butt, Scholes’ former Manchester United team-mate, also discussed the possible influence of Haaland’s father, Alf Inge Haaland, on the striker’s career.

Butt suggested the family may already be prepared for any developments that could affect the player’s time at Manchester City.

“I would be surprised if his dad hadn’t already got something lined up for him somewhere,” Butt said, referring to the possibility of future options being considered should Haaland be forced to leave the club.

He also spoke about Alf Inge Haaland’s regular presence during his son’s career.

“He’s everywhere,” Butt added. “He’s even sometimes around the penalty area for half the game, watching his son and trying to get all the limelight.”

Haaland joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2022 and made an outstanding start to life in England. He scored 52 goals in his first season, including 36 in the Premier League, and won the Golden Boot.

His total for Manchester City has since reached 176 goals in all competitions. He has won nine trophies with the club, including the UEFA Champions League, two Premier League titles and two FA Cups.

Haaland was also one of the central figures in Manchester City’s historic treble-winning 2022-23 season.