Paul Scholes Predicts Erling Haaland Could Join Barcelona If Manchester City Faces Relegation
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has suggested that Erling Haaland may make a move to Barcelona if Manchester City suffers relegation following a financial investigation by the Premier League. On the podcast The Good, The Bad & The Football, Scholes indicated that the Norwegian striker could join Barcelona if City encounters significant punishment that includes relegation.
The discussion arises as the Premier League’s case against Manchester City has progressed. On September 29, 2026, an independent commission ruled that City had violated serious financial regulations and failed to cooperate with the investigation. City promptly filed an appeal on October 1, keeping the disciplinary process active.
Scholes Forecasts Haaland’s Future at Barcelona
Scholes expressed that although Haaland may suit Real Madrid, he ultimately believes Barcelona would be his next destination. He asserted, “Barcelona. Although he looks like a Real Madrid player. I can easily picture him in a Real Madrid shirt, but he’ll go to Barça.”
This prediction stands out in light of Haaland’s recent contract extension with Manchester City, which secures his position at the Etihad Stadium until 2034.
Nicky Butt Questions Haaland’s Future Moves
Scholes is not the only former Manchester United player commenting on Haaland’s future. Nicky Butt raised suspicions about potential preparations for a move, citing the role of Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge.
Butt remarked, “I’d be surprised if he didn’t already have something lined up somewhere. (His father) is everywhere. He even turns up in the box half the time. He watches his son play and tries to take all the credit.”
Challenges for Barcelona in Pursuing Haaland
Barcelona has kept a close eye on Haaland for a significant period, yet his high financial demands and Manchester City’s strong contractual hold make negotiations challenging.
At present, City’s potential relegation could alter the situation, although it would not guarantee that Haaland would be available. This is due to City’s appeal against the commission’s ruling, with final sanctions still pending.
