Erling Haaland has finally put an end to the long-standing debate between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. For years, they have been competing at the pinnacle of the sport.
During an interview prior to the Champions League clash against Copenhagen, broadcasted live on talkSPORT, the Manchester City standout discussed the Argentine superstar.
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When asked about his aspirations for winning the Ballon d’Or, Haaland reflected on missing out on football’s premier accolade in 2023, as Messi claimed his eighth Ballon d’Or title, surpassing Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.
For years, Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been the dominant forces in football, yet there’s speculation that Haaland and Mbappe could emerge as the next duo to vie for the sport’s top honors.
Despite Haaland’s remarkable debut season with City, which saw him net 52 goals in 53 games and secure victories in the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and Club World Cup in 2023.
Messi’s triumph in the World Cup with Argentina in December 2022 overshadowed Haaland’s achievements, leaving him short of claiming the ultimate prize.
Ahead of the Copenhagen game, a reporter asked: “Things couldn’t have really gone any better for you in your first year here. And yet you missed out to Messi on the two big individual prizes.
“For you to actually win those, does he have to retire?”
Responding to the question, Haaland said: “I don’t know, good question. ‘Yeah, it’s true he won it and he won the World Cup so I don’t know what to say.
“He is the best that has ever played I think so yeah, I don’t know.”
Ronaldo, Messi’s enduring rival, might not appreciate Haaland’s admiration.
Having clinched five Ballon d’Or awards, the Portuguese icon presents a strong argument for being considered one of football’s greatest players ever.
