Former Spain midfielder and Barcelona player Gaizka Mendieta has suggested that Erling Haaland might consider departing Manchester City if the club stops regularly competing for major trophies.
The future of the Norwegian striker is once again up for debate amid ongoing discussions surrounding Manchester City's financial misconduct verdict. Mendieta estimates that a move for Haaland would cost any interested club at least €100 million.
Mendieta stated:
Erling Haaland's future is a fascinating topic. We'll see how Manchester City performs and how successful the club becomes. Players like Haaland want to win trophies.
I agree that if he does leave—and it's a distinct possibility—the price will be massive, not less than a hundred million. That's the market.
The Spanish legend pinpointed two potential destinations for the forward's career continuation: Real Madrid and Barcelona. However, he believes Barcelona might be a better fit for Haaland:
I can see him at both Real and Barcelona. But I think Barcelona's style would suit him better—and he might be more useful to that club. His runs and power in the box complement Hansi Flick's football well.
Mendieta emphasised that this is currently just speculation regarding potential future developments:
We're talking about a long-term perspective here. But if Manchester City doesn't accomplish anything this season or in the next couple of years, Haaland is still very young and ambitious. He won't want to remain at a club that isn't winning trophies.
Haaland's contract with Manchester City runs until the summer of 2034.
