Manchester City Star Erling Haaland’s Transfer to Barça Announced: Guardiola and Gündogan are behind It. Deal is Done

Erling Haaland’s transfer from Manchester City to FC Barcelona has sent shockwaves through the football world. Widely regarded as one of the most dominant strikers of his generation, Haaland appeared central to City’s long-term plans, making his sudden departure both unexpected and highly consequential. After two prolific seasons in England and a series of record-breaking performances, the Norwegian forward has now officially signed for Barcelona, marking one of the most significant transfers in recent years.

Manchester City supporters reacted with disbelief, struggling to understand how the club’s most lethal finisher could leave at such a pivotal moment. Meanwhile, Barcelona fans celebrated the acquisition as a transformative step for the club’s attacking future. With the team seeking renewed stability and firepower following Lionel Messi’s exit and Robert Lewandowski’s growing injury concerns, Haaland’s arrival is viewed as a major statement of intent from the Catalan side.

The surprising element of the deal lies not only in its completion but in the figures reportedly involved behind the scenes. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that Pep Guardiola approved the transfer and played a discreet role in facilitating it. Additionally, Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gündogan—Haaland’s former teammate at Manchester City—is believed to have been influential in shaping the striker’s decision. Their involvement has sparked extensive debate, raising questions about the strategic reasoning behind the move.

Barcelona’s pursuit of Haaland began months ago, driven by a desire to secure a long-term attacking leader capable of carrying the club through the next decade. While initial expectations were low due to Haaland’s apparent comfort at Manchester City, Barcelona’s leadership remained convinced that his physical profile, mentality and goalscoring instincts aligned perfectly with the club’s ambitions and footballing identity.

Gündogan’s relationship with Haaland ultimately provided Barcelona with an opening. During a private discussion while on international duty, Gündogan reportedly outlined the scale of Barcelona’s project and emphasized the central role Haaland would play in the club’s future. While not immediately decisive, the conversation is said to have influenced Haaland’s thinking, contributing to the gradual shift that culminated in his move to Spain.