Manchester City: Gareth Barry predicts Erling Haaland’s departure

Questions continue to be asked about Erling Haaland’s future at Manchester City. Arriving in 2022, the Norwegian striker has a contract running until 2034, but Gareth Barry believes that long-term deal is no absolute guarantee. Asked by GOAL, the former Manchester City player looked at the situation of the 26-year-old striker. In his view, Haaland could eventually feel the need to turn the page and take on a new challenge.

According to Barry, the coming seasons could play a decisive role in that decision. Manchester City’s performances, and its ability to keep competing at the very top in England and in Europe, could weigh heavily in the Norwegian’s thinking. “The next two years will be important”, the former England international said in substance, adding that a departure could gradually become an attractive option for Haaland. Despite his long-term commitment to the Citizens, the striker could therefore still be courted by Europe’s biggest clubs. For Manchester City, the challenge will be to maintain an ambitious enough project to keep its attacking talisman.