Haaland could favour Barcelona move if Manchester City future changes – Mendieta

Former Spain and Barcelona midfielder Gaizka Mendieta believes Erling Haaland could be well suited to a future move to Barcelona if Manchester City’s ongoing situation affects the striker’s prospects at the club.

Manchester City were reportedly found guilty of all but one of the 115 charges brought against them by the Premier League in 2023, according to claims that emerged on Friday. The club could face a range of sanctions, including a points deduction or expulsion from the Premier League.

Haaland was reportedly removed from media duties with Norway after the developments involving Manchester City. The potential consequences have raised questions over whether some of the club’s players could seek departures if the team is severely punished.

Mendieta said Haaland’s desire to compete for major trophies could influence any decision about his future, while suggesting Barcelona’s style may suit the Norway striker particularly well.

“Erling Haaland’s future is interesting. Let's see how things pan out at Man City and whether it turns out to be successful. Players like Haaland want to win trophies. I agree that if he moves, which could happen, the price tag will be massive, certainly not below a hundred million. That is just the way it is,” Mendieta told Casinolyze.

Haaland joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund and remains one of the club’s leading players, but Mendieta believes both Barcelona and Real Madrid could be possible destinations if he eventually decides to leave.

“In terms of where I see him, I could imagine him at both Madrid and Barca. However, I sense that Barca's style would be better for him, and perhaps better for the club too. The way he makes those runs and his power in the box suits the Hansi Flick style quite well,” he added.

Mendieta stressed that any move would not necessarily be imminent. Haaland is still young and could remain at Manchester City for the coming seasons, depending on how the club’s campaign and the charges develop.

“We are talking about something quite far down the line, but if things don't work out at City this season or over the next couple of seasons, he is still very young and very ambitious. He won't want to stay at a club where they aren't winning trophies,” said Mendieta.

Haaland is currently with the Norway squad during the extended international break, giving him time to consider his situation before club football resumes. Manchester City’s possible punishment could determine whether those questions become an immediate issue or remain a longer-term consideration.