Erling Haaland for Manchester City. (Credit: Twitter)
Despite Cristiano Ronaldo;’s exclusion, there still is no clear path ahead for the Argentine to get his hand on an eighth Ballon D’or as of yet as another undeniable superstar stands in his way: Erling Haaland.
The Ballon D’or shortlist was released this past week and many were shocked to witness the exclusion of Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo for the first time in 20 years.
Most were sure that this was Messi’s opportunity to further cement his legacy with an eighth Ballon D’or. But, then again, everyone knows that there is no clear path ahead for the Argentine as of yet as another undeniable superstar stands in his way: Erling Haaland.
🇳🇴 Erling Haaland scored a million goals, won the treble at Man City, was UCL top goalscorer and broke PL scoring records.🇦🇷 Leo Messi was the best player at the 2022 World Cup by a country mile, inspiring his nation to the trophy and leading his teammates to immortality.
Who… pic.twitter.com/voo6bE7uA0
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) September 6, 2023
As sensational and other-worldly as Messi may have been, picking up the World Cup trophy that eluded him all throughout his career, Haaland’s unparalleled hunger for goals left the world speechless.
The dominant Norweigian striker racked up a jaw-dropping 56 goals this past season for Manchester City, leading the way for them to attain the elusive Champions League for the very first time. And it has been this showcase of raw attacking brilliance which has fueled the raging debate regarding who deserves the Ballon D’or more.
READ: Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland and Aitana Bonmati Lead 2023 Ballon D’or Nominees
Well, we now know where Haaland stands on the debate as the striker addressed his outlook on the matter and staked his claim.
When talk of a maiden Ballon d’Or win emerged during an interview with French magazine L’Equipe, Haaland said he’ll bet on himself.
Erling Haaland on the 2023 #BallonDor award: “I know I can still improve a great deal, I’m still young. But yes, I believe I have a chance this year…” [via @lequipe/@GFFN]— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) September 10, 2023
“I know I can still improve a great deal; I’m still young. But yes, I believe I have a chance this year,” said Haaland.
The Manchester City man went on a rampage on his first season in the Premier League, notching up 36 goals in 35 appearances, effortlessly breaking the record for most goals scored in an individual Premier League season that was held by Alan Shearer for almost two decades.
So, when asked about whether he believes he’s the best striker in the world, Haaland coyly replied saying, “In my mind… It all depends on what we mean by striker. It’s a trick question. I’m definitely up there. Am I the best? Maybe.“
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But, one thing is for certain with Haaland: he wants to recognized for being himself.
He reinstated the ever-lasting faith he has in himself by stating, “I’d like people to remember me as a special player, in the way I play. This is what I’m trying to do every week: show special stuff.“
