How Haaland's contract was agreed, who was involved and why the striker decided to sign up for nine and a half years

Erling Haaland's mammoth contract extension with Manchester City took the soccer world by surprise. Which suits him just fine. “Of course it’s a bit unusual and it’s not normal. But it’s something I like.

So Erling Haaland caused quite a stir when he signed his latest contract, which ties him to Manchester City for nine and a half years. It’s the longest contract in Premier League history, and a significant statement for both club and player.