Norway forward Erling Braut Haaland celebrates after the UEFA Nations League football match Norway vs Sweden in Oslo, Norway, on June 12, 2022. (Image by Javad Parsa/NTB/AFP) / Norway OUT
Erling Haaland said a move to Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund was a “great step” for his career as the Norwegian aims to lead the Premier League champions to win more trophies.
Last month, Man City announced they had overcome competition from Europe’s top clubs to agree a deal with the German giants after activating a £51m ($63m) release clause. by Haland.
The 21-year-old’s transfer was officially completed on Monday when Haaland signed a five-year deal following in the footsteps of his father Alfie Inge Haaland, who played for City between 2000 and 2003.
“This is a proud day for me and my family. I’ve always watched Man City and loved it in recent seasons,” said Haaland.
“I want to score goals, win trophies, and improve as a footballer and I am confident I can do that here. This is a great move for me, and I can’t wait to start pre-season. ”
The arrival of one of world football’s greatest talents has ended City’s search for a professional striker to succeed Sergio Aguero, who left the club last year.
Man City’s bid to sign England captain Harry Kane from Tottenham was unsuccessful last summer, but Pep Guardiola’s men were still enough to beat Liverpool by one point to claim a fourth Premier League title. in five seasons.
However, the English champions failed in their attempt to win the Champions League for the first time, losing to Real Madrid with a dramatic 6-5 aggregate scoreline.
Haaland has scored 23 goals in 19 Champions League appearances for Dortmund and RB Salzburg and is expected to give City the lead before it matters most in Europe.
“There are so many world-class players in this squad and Pep is one of the greatest managers of all time, so I believe I’m in the right place to fulfill my ambitions,” he said. said more.
“You can’t help but admire their style of play, it’s exciting and they create so many chances, which is perfect for a player like me.”
Haaland has almost been selected into Europe’s top clubs thanks to its below-market buy-back clause and a stunning record of 86 goals in 89 games for Dortmund.
He rejected Manchester United’s advances when he moved from Salzburg to Dortmund in January 2020 and his decision to choose Etihad as his destination was a coup for City’s rising position.
City director of football Txiki Begiristain said: “His rise has been remarkable, but he is still only 21 years old.
“He is a huge talent and has been one of the best strikers in Europe over the past few seasons.
“His goalscoring record is exceptional and his performances at Borussia Dortmund and especially in the Champions League, have proven that he can succeed at the highest level.”
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