Haaland Discusses Man Utd Rivalry Haircut and City Form

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has discussed his changing appearance, his attitude toward Manchester United, and the challenge of facing Liverpool at Anfield. In interviews reported by LiveScore and Goal on October 11 and October 10, 2026, respectively, the Norway international also explained how his shorter haircut has made him less recognizable in public.

Haaland's comments come during a season in which Manchester City have established themselves at the top of the Premier League. According to LiveScore, City entered their trip to Liverpool with a perfect league record under Enzo Maresca, while Haaland had scored seven goals in seven matches across all competitions.

During an interview with beIN Connect, Haaland struggled briefly to recall Manchester United's name, highlighting the changing dynamics of the rivalry between the two Manchester clubs.

"What's their name?" Haaland asked before identifying City's city rivals.

When the moment was discussed again, the Norwegian acknowledged his brief hesitation.

"I had to think about the name." Haaland said.

Manchester United historically enjoyed greater success than their local rivals, with former manager Sir Alex Ferguson famously referring to City's supporters as "noisy neighbors." However, the balance of power has shifted over the past decade, and Haaland's four years at City have coincided with United's reduced prominence in the title race.

Attention has also turned to City's visit to Anfield, where Liverpool supporters were expected to create a hostile atmosphere. The fixture carried additional tension because of the financial regulation case involving Manchester City, which had intensified criticism of the club.

Haaland welcomed the prospect of a difficult reception from the home crowd rather than expressing concern about the atmosphere.

"I hope it's like that [hostile], it should be like that when Man City go to Liverpool and Anfield." Haaland said.

He also encouraged unity within the City squad, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive outlook while pursuing victories.

"We have to stick together," Haaland told Sky Sports.

The striker expanded on that message, urging his teammates to support one another and enjoy the experience of competing together.

"We have to stay with each other, and we have to stay positive. No matter what happens in life, we always have to have a smile. So we have to stay positive, look ahead, and try to win football games and try to enjoy the situation and win the game." Haaland said.

His remarks came as City prepared for a demanding away fixture against Liverpool, who had dropped points against Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest, and Fulham. Those results contrasted with City's strong start to the campaign, although the outcome at Anfield remained dependent on the performance on the pitch.

Off the field, Haaland has also embraced a dramatic change in his appearance. At the end of August, shortly before the season began, the 26-year-old replaced his trademark long blond hair and bun with a short haircut that attracted widespread attention.

Speaking to Sky Sports in comments reported by France's RMC, Haaland said the reaction exceeded his expectations.

"I expected it to cause some fuss, but I did not expect the whole world to look at my new haircut. It was very funny," Haaland said.

The change has also provided the striker with a degree of anonymity when he is away from football, reducing the frequency with which people recognize him in public.

"People no longer recognize me as much in the street. That beautiful blond hair is no longer visible. It is a change, and I see that as a good thing." Haaland said.