Erling Haaland unconcerned by potential Man City punishment amid 115 charges

Erling Haaland has dismissed concerns over a potential punishment for Manchester City amid their 115 Premier League charges for alleged financial breaches, pointing to his 9½-year contract as a sign of trust in the club.

In January, Haaland signed a new deal, the longest-ever agreed by a major club, despite the uncertainty surrounding City due to the charges. These could result in a significant fine or a substantial points deduction for the club.

The hearings began in September and concluded in December, with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expecting a verdict by the end of March.

However, when asked about his concerns during a news conference in Norway on Friday, Haaland reaffirmed his confidence in the situation.

“I don’t do that, obviously, when I sign a 9½-year contract,” Haaland said.

“I’ve said 300 times why I signed the contract. I talked to the club, got a good feeling and agreed to it in the end. That’s why.”

Haaland, though not matching his form from the past two seasons, has been a rare bright spot in a difficult campaign for City, who have fallen out of the Premier League title race and exited the Champions League.

Erling Haaland has scored 29 goals for Man City this term

Man City sit fifth in the Premier League and have progressed to the FA Cup quarterfinals.

“That’s how it is sometimes,” the 24-year-old added. “It’s been different when you’ve won the Premier League both years and not been in the title race. But you can’t win every year.

“Now it’s about securing a Champions League place, and do something you can do something about: Win the FA Cup.”