Erling Haaland has swapped his trademark long hair for a buzz cut, unveiling the new look in an Instagram video ahead of Manchester City's Premier League opener against Bournemouth. The change has drawn amused reactions from figures including former City manager Pep Guardiola and ex-Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, given how closely the Norwegian's flowing locks had become tied to his image, having previously been credited by former teammate Kevin De Bruyne with inspiring young fans to copy the style.

The 26-year-old had been enjoying a relaxed summer following Norway's World Cup quarter-final exit, spending time on yachts in the French Riviera and Sicily and meeting basketball great Michael Jordan. He had worn his hair in a ponytail during last week's Community Shield, in which City lost 3-0 to Arsenal in a poor performance under new manager Enzo Maresca, with Haaland managing just 13 touches and no shots on target.