Erling Haaland says Manchester City must remain positive and support one another after the club was found to have committed financial breaches in the Premier League.
The Norway striker spoke about his strong connection with the club and the United Kingdom in an interview with Manchester City’s official media before Sunday’s match against Liverpool at Anfield.
Haaland did not comment directly on the independent commission’s ruling, which formally found Manchester City guilty in the case. Instead, he stressed the importance of his relationship with the club and its supporters.
“This place means a lot to me, and the United Kingdom in general,” Haaland said. “My family has lived here for 10 years. It is a special place for us.”
“Manchester City means a lot to me, and the fans mean a lot to me too. I am a fan of the club myself and I feel that I belong to them.”
The 26-year-old also called for unity as the club prepares for its first match since details of the Premier League investigation and the commission’s decision became known.
“We have to stay together, support each other and be positive,” he said. “Whatever happens in life, we always have to smile, be positive, look ahead and try to win football games and enjoy the moment.”
According to journalist David Ornstein, Manchester City players’ contracts do not contain relegation clauses. Such provisions were not considered because the club had never imagined that this situation would arise, having consistently maintained its innocence in the case.
Sunday’s trip to Anfield will therefore be Manchester City’s first appearance since the ruling was revealed. The match will also give Haaland another opportunity to face Liverpool at a ground where he has experienced victory, a draw and defeat.
“It is always special to play against Liverpool,” he said. “The games there, at Anfield, are always special. I have won there, drawn there and lost there as well.”
He added: “Every Premier League match is different, and every game against Liverpool is always special. I think Manchester City’s fans will enjoy their time.”
Manchester City published Haaland’s comments on 8 October 2026, alongside a video previewing the weekend fixture. The club’s post included his message: “We have to stay positive, look ahead and try to win football games.”
The visit of Enzo Maresca’s side to Anfield will be closely watched as Manchester City begin life on the pitch following the independent commission’s finding. Haaland’s comments indicate that his focus, at least publicly, is on maintaining togetherness within the squad and preparing for a demanding Premier League game.
