If you’ve been curious about the recent activities of Erling Haaland since the conclusion of the World Cup — maybe acquiring more taxidermy raccoons or perfecting his robotic dance moves — his latest escapade features a striking new haircut.
On Sunday, the Norwegian football sensation and internet favorite shared with his 76.9 million Instagram followers, “Short hair don’t care,” along with images of his fresh buzz cut.
In a subsequent post featuring a video, Haaland noted, “New season, new trim,” showcasing his long, golden locks before the cut and the transformed look afterward.
The 26-year-old, who plays for Manchester City in the Premier League, had already established himself as a prominent and accomplished soccer player prior to the 2026 World Cup, having secured nine significant trophies with the team, including the esteemed Champions League trophy.
However, his fame escalated during the tournament, largely due to his quirky, humorous persona and his skills on the field.
And yes, the hair played a part.
Haaland poses following the World Cup round of 32 soccer match between Ivory Coast and Norway in Arlington, Texas, on June 30. (Jessica Tobias/The Associated Press)
“This gorgeous blond hair? It’s time to say goodbye,” Haaland remarked in a YouTube video released on Sunday, explaining that he had intended to cut it after the World Cup but had been too preoccupied.
He mentioned having one concern, which was a warning from his friend and mentor, former superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who advised him against cutting his hair.
“Because your power is in your hair,” Haaland said. “I was a bit anxious.”
“But the Vikings? They also sport shorter styles,” he added.
Later in the video, after the haircut, Haaland video-called Ibrahimovic to reveal his new appearance.
“What the f–k did you do?” Ibrahimovic exclaimed. “Oh my God. Block me and delete my number.”
Additionally, Haaland reached out to former City manager Pep Guardiola, who is bald, and told the striker: “You’re fortunate to have hair.”
A composite image showing two screen grabs from the same video posted to Instagram by Haaland on Sunday. (@erling/Instagram)
‘Put it back’
The responses on social media varied, with some fans praising Haaland’s fresh look and youthful appearance, while others lamented the end of his iconic hairstyle.
“An angel has lost its wings,” one comment read on his Instagram video.
-
Erling Haaland mania is taking over at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
-
Yes, Erling Haaland brought home a taxidermy raccoon from his World Cup travels
“The Viking era has ended,” another user commented on X.
“I hope you haven’t shaved away your powers,” noted another supporter.
“Put it back,” urged another.
Haaland, left, expresses his frustration during the English Premier League soccer match between Manchester City and Bournemouth in Manchester, Sunday. (Nick Potts/The Associated Press)
Haaland showcased his new hairstyle in person on Sunday during his team’s opening match against Bournemouth.
His team secured a 2-1 victory, but Haaland missed several scoring opportunities and seemed disappointed with his own performance.
He isn’t the only celebrity flaunting a new haircut for the upcoming season. Heated Rivalry‘s Connor Storrie was also spotted on Sunday, appearing to have cut off his curly hair in preparation for the second season of the show.
Julie Newport, co-owner of Wild Bill’s Western Store in Dallas, Texas, tells The National about the moment Norwegian soccer star Erling Haaland took home a taxidermied raccoon from her shop.