Erling Haaland recently had his say on Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’s rivalry. With both Messi and Ronaldo in the twilight of their careers, Haaland has emerged as the next big star in the soccer world besides Kylian Mbappe. However, according to Haaland, Messi and Ronaldo are still on top of their game.
In an exclusive interview with France Football, Erling Haaland praised Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He said, “I feel privileged to have been able to watch two such extraordinary champions.” He further added that despite their age, Messi and Ronaldo are still “fantastic.” The Manchester City star also admitted that soccer fans expect his rivalry with Kylian Mbappe to succeed Ronaldo’s rivalry with Messi.
Haaland:
“I feel privileged to have been able to watch two such extraordinary champions, It seems like people think the new rivalry will be between me & Mbappe. But we must emphasise to what extent Messi & Cristiano have done things. We shouldn’t forget they are still doing it.” pic.twitter.com/NtTmCBq09t
— CristianoXtra (@CristianoXtra_) September 9, 2023
After a brilliant last season, Erling Haaland is one of the top contenders for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award. Haaland won the Premier League, the Champions League, and the FA Cup last season. Haaland’s Manchester City was also crowned UEFA Super Cup champions last month, defeating Sevilla in the final. In addition to this, he’s already won the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year award just a few weeks ago.
Erling Haaland wants Lionel Messi’s dribbling skills
Erling Haaland also revealed the one trait of Lionel Messi he wished he had during his interview. Haaland admitted that he highly admires Lionel Messi’s dribbling skills. The Inter Miami star is widely regarded as one of the greatest dribblers in soccer history. On the other hand, while Haaland is known for his goalscoring prowess, dribbling doesn’t seem to be the 23-year-old soccer star’s forte.
• “If you could take one quality from another player, what would it be and who?”
Erling Haaland: “I wish I had Messi’s dribbling. It’s quite a good choice, isn’t it? (laughs)” @FranceFootball_ 🗣️🇳🇴 pic.twitter.com/Bp864bIyvU
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) September 9, 2023
Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi are set to go toe-to-toe for the Ballon d’Or this year. The Norwegian forward believes that he can challenge Messi to the award this year. Haaland said, “I believe in myself, I really do. I know I can still improve a lot, I’m still young. But yes, I think I have a chance this year.” Meanwhile, Lionel Messi has already stated that he isn’t much bothered about winning the Ballon d’Or, having won seven previously.
Despite turning 36 this year, Lionel Messi remains a force to be reckoned with. While some fans believe Haaland will win the award, Messi’s feats in the World Cup 2022 have made the Argentine skipper one of the strongest contenders. Do you think that Haaland can beat the seven-time Ballon d’Or-winning Lionel Messi to the prize? Let us know in the comments below.
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