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Haaland shares that Phil Foden encouraged him to “join me at City” back in 2021.
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The Norwegian reflects that Foden “was right about that” while looking back on the moment with a smile.
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Haaland signed with Man City from Borussia Dortmund for £51 million in the summer of 2022.
Erling Haaland has acknowledged that Phil Foden was spot-on in encouraging him to join Manchester City after a UEFA Champions League match in 2021.
Manchester City’s striker recalled a conversation with Foden following the first leg of City’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final victory over Borussia Dortmund in 2021, during which the Norwegian was still at Dortmund and City was among the teams interested in him.
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The forward made his move to City from Dortmund in the summer of 2022 for approximately £51 million, quickly making an impact by scoring an impressive 90 goals in his first two seasons at the Etihad Stadium and solidifying his status as one of the most formidable strikers globally.
Phil Foden and Manchester City renew long-term contract.
Haaland admits Foden was right to suggest joining Man City
Reflecting on the exchange nearly five years later, Haaland emphasized that the conversation with his fellow Manchester City enthusiast remains memorable.
“Phil (Foden) said I should come and join him at City, and that’s exactly what he told me,” Haaland revealed to City’s official media. “And yeah, he was right about it—I have to admit. It’s amusing to look back on it.”
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This anecdote adds a personal touch to the partnership that has become one of the most fruitful in recent Premier League history.
Haaland’s incredible goal-scoring record has perfectly complemented Foden’s playmaking abilities throughout their time at the Etihad, particularly instrumental in City’s record fourth Premier League title during the 2023-24 season.
What this reveals about City’s dressing room culture
This story also comes at a critical time as Foden has struggled to secure regular starting positions since January but has made significant contributions in recent weeks.
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Guardiola praised Foden’s knack for “creating something only exceptional players can deliver” after his standout performance in Wednesday’s 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace.
Phil Foden opens up about his struggles with Manchester City following an impressive performance against Crystal Palace.
Haaland’s recollection highlights the camaraderie within Manchester City’s dressing room, where players actively recruit one another long before any contracts are finalized. In this case, it turned out to be an excellent pitch for everyone involved.