Rob Dawson, correspondent
– said Pep Guardiola Erling Haaland‘S new, huge contract shows that the attacker has “trust”. Manchester City.
On Friday, Haaland signed a record 9.5-year contract that will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until 2034.
It comes at a time when City are struggling First league charges for financial mismanagement which, if found guilty, could lead to relegation from the Premier League.
Guardiola suggested that given the uncertainty around the club, the length of Haaland’s contract is significant.
“It’s Erling’s trust,” Guardiola said.
“The club knows how professional it is. You never know what will happen in 10 years. That’s what he wanted. When one player decides to sign this kind of contract – which has never been done before – he shows how much he wants to be here.
“A lot can happen in 10 years. It’s a sign of trust in the club.”
Haaland’s contract signed immediately after his arrival Borussia Dortmund in 2022, was to expire in 2027.
Guardiola was informed of his latest extension by sporting director Txiki Begiristain and admitted he was in disbelief when the news was first heard.
“I said ‘can you repeat that?'” Guardiola said when asked about his first reaction when he found out about it.
“He [Begiristain] he told me and I asked, “are you sure?” This is good news. It means a lot. He’s still young. I’m sure as he matures and plays games he will naturally improve.”
