Erling Haaland in action for Manchester City in 2025

Erling Haaland agent explains why Manchester City are hardest club to negotiate with

Adem Ozcan Last updated: May 6, 2026, 7:25 pm
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Image: IMAGO / Sportimage

Erling Haaland’s agent Rafaela Pimenta has revealed why negotiating with Manchester City is unlike dealing with any other club, describing them as “the most difficult” in football when it comes to transfer and contract discussions.

The insight comes after Haaland signed a long-term deal that secures his future at the Etihad Stadium until 2034 — one of the most significant contracts in modern football.

Rafaela Pimenta explains Manchester City negotiation approach

Speaking to ESPN Netherlands, Rafaela Pimenta outlined what makes Manchester City so challenging to negotiate with.

Her explanation was not about conflict — but structure.

“Because they are very serious, very organised… they know what they are doing, they have everything. So, we have no room for negotiation.” — Rafaela Pimenta

That approach reflects a club operating from a position of strength.

Manchester City’s recruitment and contract strategy has been built on long-term planning and financial control, limiting the leverage typically available in negotiations.

Erling Haaland contract highlights City’s power

Erling Haaland signed a nine-and-a-half-year contract extension in 2025, committing his future to Manchester City until the summer of 2034.

The deal reportedly made him the highest-paid player at the club, with wages around £400,000 per week.

From Manchester City’s recent seasons, securing key players on long-term contracts has become a consistent strategy — reducing uncertainty and maintaining squad stability.

Haaland’s extension is the clearest example of that model in action.

Why Manchester City are difficult to negotiate with

Pimenta’s comments highlight a broader reality. Manchester City are not a selling club under pressure. They do not need to compromise easily.

Their financial strength, squad depth and competitive success allow them to negotiate from a position where they rarely have to concede ground.

Having followed Manchester City’s transfer dealings in recent years, this pattern is consistent: deals are structured on their terms, not dictated by external pressure.

That makes negotiations more rigid — but also more predictable.

Agent praises Haaland’s mentality off the pitch

While negotiations may be complex, Pimenta was clear about one thing — Haaland himself is not.
She described the striker as grounded and focused despite his global status.

“He is very relaxed and modest… he doesn’t like nonsense; he likes to focus on what really matters: football.” — Rafaela Pimenta

That mindset has been a defining feature of his rise.

Rather than embracing the spotlight, Haaland’s approach remains centred on performance and consistency.

Key insights

  • Manchester City are described as the “most difficult club” to negotiate with
  • Erling Haaland signed a contract until 2034
  • The deal reportedly made him the club’s top earner
  • City’s structured approach limits negotiation flexibility
  • Haaland is praised for his modest and focused mentality

What’s next?

Manchester City are expected to continue securing key players on long-term deals as part of their strategy.

For Haaland, the focus remains on performance rather than future transfers, with his long-term commitment now firmly in place.

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