From England: Claims of Erling Haaland’s ‘preference’ between Barcelona and Real Madrid revealed

Erling Haaland does have a preference when it comes to Barcelona and Real Madrid, should he opt to leave Manchester City in future, according to recent reports.

The latest information surrounding the Norway international’s future comes at a time when the player himself opened up on his career pathway, and the potential for a move away from the Etihad Stadium in the not too distant future.

Speaking during a recent press conference, Haaland explained on life at Manchester City, “I’m really happy. Especially with the people that I’m surrounded with; the manager, the directors, the board, they are a group of amazing people and I’m really happy, I have to say.

“If I say this now it’s probably going to be a massive headline, tomorrow you never know what the future brings, but I’m happy. You can write this but you also have to write everything I said before. I’m happy.”

Such comments were drawn through questioning on links to the Spanish game, and particularly the persistent interest from Real Madrid. However, despite talk of a future move to the capital, a new report suggests Haaland may have his eyes elsewhere in the country.

That is according to the information of Manchester City insider ‘Tolmie’s Hairdoo’ on X, who claims that Erling Haaland does have a ‘preference’ of Catalan giants Barcelona over the current La Liga leaders Real Madrid, if such a dilemma ever came to the table.

It is claimed that the Norway international striker was ‘touched by the reception’ he received from Barcelona supporters when he took part in a charity game for Manchester City at Camp Nou during the 2022/23 season.

Unfortunately for Barca, the report does clarify that there is ‘real optimism’ that Erling Haaland will agree to an extension to his present contractual agreement at the Etihad Stadium.

Erling Haaland is once again having another stellar season working under Pep Guardiola, and is coming into Wednesday night’s clash against Copenhagen in the Champions League fresh off the back of another goalscoring outing at the weekend – against Manchester United.

Haaland’s injury-time strike to seal the three points against City’s cross-town rivals took his tally to 28 goals and six assists across all competitions this season, having registered 31 appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side, despite a lengthy bone injury during the winter months.