Erling Haaland in the Championship? Man City told big points deduction in FFP case would see star striker leave as Norway legend claims transfer release clause does exist in new 10-year contract

The prolific Norwegian striker has committed to a lucrative 10-year deal at the Etihad Stadium. That agreement is intended to keep him in his current surroundings until the summer of 2034. Questions have, however, already been asked of whether said terms will be honoured.

City currently have at least 115 Financial Fair Play charges hanging over their head, with a verdict imminent following an independent hearing. It has been suggested that the reigning Premier League champions could be hit with a penalty of up to 100 points, which would lead to them tumbling out of the English top-flight.

Quizzed on whether Haaland would stick around for a stint in the Championship, former Norway international John Arne Riise – speaking in association with BetMGM – told GOAL of his fellow countryman: “If City go down, I think a lot of players are going to leave. At the moment, I am surprised that they gave Haaland a 10-year contract.

“It just shows Haaland, his family and the club that they are really going for it. They are in a dip of performances, they haven’t been the best this season, so they are eager to get new players in, younger players, and try to get back to the top.”

Pressed further on the chances of Haaland seeing out a stunning decade-long contract in Manchester, ex-Liverpool defender Riise added: “It all depends on the charges, what is going to happen with all of those that City are facing.

“I think they signed that deal just to show the intention of City. They have signed a few other players recently as well. They are trying to build for the future.

“I think Haaland’s idea is to stay there for the 10 years. I don’t know what clauses they have. He wouldn’t have signed it if he didn’t think it could happen. But, should they get a points deduction or go down a division, I am sure there is a clause in there that lets him go.”

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City will be hoping that relegation is not something that they have to concern themselves with, as they remain adamant that they have done nothing wrong on the FFP front. The expectation is that they will appeal against any sanctions that are handed out.

John Arne Riise was speaking on behalf of BetMGM. Play the £1million Golden Goals game this season by correctly predicting Premier League scores. BeGambleAware |18+