Haaland surprised by his growth during Man City medical sparks Zabaleta reaction

Erling Haaland was stunned last month upon discovering his true height - and it seems he's not the only one taken aback by his imposing stature.

The Norway international was snapped up by Manchester City in a £51million transfer from Borussia Dortmund in June, with the striker penning a five-year contract at the Etihad. He underwent his medical before the deal was officially confirmed and was surprised to learn he had grown in height since his last check-up.

Haaland's previous recorded height was 1.95metres (six foot, five inches), but the Man City medical team learned the forward now stands at 1.952metres.

In a video clip of Haaland undergoing his medical, the striker is heard announcing, "Oh wow, I've grown... almost one centimetre," to the Man City staff measuring him.

Former Manchester City defender Pablo Zabaleta was recently asked for his opinion on the new Sky Blues striker and was quick to point out he too was taken aback by the sheer stature of the man.

"He's a big lad, I saw him and I was like 'wow'", Zabaleta told Sky Sports. "He was one of the main players on the market and a lot of top teams were looking to sign him and we are all very pleased to have him at the club.

"I think he's got that connection already with man city because his dad played before at the club, for me I would say he's truly the best player in the world. Players come here and then they don't want to move."

Haaland comes to England with a hugely impressive reputation after setting football alight in both Austria and Germany before his transfer to the Premier League.

On why he picked Pep Guardiola's project over the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, he said at his unveiling: "I was born in England, I've been a City fan my whole life. I know a lot about the club. I think in the end, two things; I feel at home a bit here. Also, I think I can develop and get the best out of my game at City."

Haaland also discussed the impact of his dad on his decision. "He lived in England, he played for the club. Of course, a lot of things have changed in the last 20 years but he lived here, so he knows what it is.

"We've just been speaking about basically how it is, what's the best for me, what's this, what's that, and to try and find out everything. He's been a good dad in that thing there."

Haaland went on to say: "I have always watched City and have loved doing so in recent seasons. You can't help but admire their style of play, it's exciting and they create a lot of chances, which is perfect for a player like me.

"There are so many world-class players in this squad and Pep is one of the greatest managers of all time, so I believe I am in the right place to fulfil my ambitions. I want to score goals, win trophies and improve as a footballer and I am confident I can do that here. This is a great move for me and I can't wait to get started in pre-season."