The biggest transfer of the summer was between two of Europe’s hottest goal-getters, between Erling Braut Haaland and Robert Lewandowski. The FC Bayern legend moved to Barcelona, while Dortmund’s number 9 moved north to Man City. It could’ve been a lot different, however, as revealed by Alf-Inge Haaland, former Man City defensive midfielder, and Erling’s dad
As revealed in a recent documentary titled Haaland – The Big Decision, Alf-Inge revealed the criteria regarding a transfer and what the final results were. Points were allocated to each club, such as the history of the club, playing style, stadium capacity, and whether they needed a star striker like Erling
Only one point in total separated Man City with Bayern, who were first and second respectively. Then Real Madrid was third, followed by Paris Saint-German in fourth. Liverpool, Chelsea, and Barcelona wrapped up the seven shortlisted clubs Erling was considering to join, although all of these were a long way off the top two
Alf-Inge said ‚it was only one point separating the top two with the final calculations. One of the criteria is about whether the club needs a 9, Man City scored 10 out of 10 in this regard. Bayern Munich received one point – they don’t need a number 9. They have the best player as a 9, but if he [Lewandowski] goes then they have nobody else‘, he explained. ‚It would have been quite controversial to move to Munich, but when we go through, it’s one of the best teams. Real Madrid are a 5 or 6, they have Benzema, and might get Mbappé‘ he further elaborated
Erling also added he has ’never transferred to a club because of the coach, but it is a big plus with Pep at City, as he’s the best coach in the world‘
Alf-Inge also suggested Erling wouldn’t renew his contract at Man City, telling Viaplay Fotboll ‚Erling wants to test out his capabilities in every league. He will stay in this league for 3 to 4 years maximum. He had 2.5 years in Germany, maybe 2.5 in England, then Spain, Italy, France, right?‘
Whether Erling will eventually return to Germany in Bayern colours remains to be seen
