Manchester City’s Erling Haaland recently shared his thoughts on the age-old debate between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, dubbing one of them as the ‘best that has ever played’.
This ongoing discussion has captivated football fans since the emergence of both players more than a decade ago.
Both Messi and Ronaldo have left an indelible mark on the sport, competing fiercely for both team and individual accolades throughout their illustrious careers.
Credit: AFP/Getty Images
Haaland, a rising star in the football world, finds himself among this new generation of talent as Messi and Ronaldo’s journeys progress in the United States and Saudi Arabia, respectively.
Despite his individual achievements and pivotal role in Manchester City’s recent Treble victory, Haaland fell short of claiming the Ballon d’Or and Best FIFA Men’s Player awards, which were both won by Messi.
Erling Haaland’s statement
In a video posted by Fabrizio Romano on X, Haaland was asked if Messi’s retirement would pave the way for his own recognition. Haaland pondered the possibility, having narrowly missed out on Messi in the recent Best FIFA Awards.
The reporter asked, ”For you to actually win those, does he have to retire?”
Haaland responded: ”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.”
🇦🇷 “You scored lot of goals and Messi won the most important individual awards, does he have to retire in order for you to win that?”.
🇳🇴 Erling Haaland: “Good question! I don’t know. He’s won the World Cup…”.
“Messi is the 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐝, I think”. pic.twitter.com/WOrmBaWfPM
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 5, 2024
Erling Haaland, who clinched the 2023 Gerd Muller Trophy for the best striker of the year, continues to strengthen his case for individual honors, particularly if Manchester City sustains its success.
The team is currently engaged in the Champions League, with a crucial second-leg match against Copenhagen looming. Holding a 3-1 advantage from the first leg, they aim to continue their title defense under the guidance of manager Pep Guardiola.
