Erling Haaland is a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or in 2023, but even Norway’s national team coach believes Lionel Messi should win.
Manchester City striker Haaland scored 52 goals in all competitions last season, helping his club win a Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup triple. His achievements have put him in contention for his first Ballon d’Or.
GettyTHE BIGGER PICTUREMessi, though, inspired Argentina to World Cup glory at Qatar 2022 – allowing him to complete a record-breaking trophy collection. The 36-year-old South American has also been starring for Inter Miami since moving to the United States, putting him in the frame to land an eighth Ballon d’Or.
Given that he works with the prolific 23-year-old at international level, Norway manager Stale Solbakken would be expected to side with Haaland in any debate over the best player on the planet, but when asked for his pick, he told VG: “If you ask me who I think will win, I’ll say Messi, thanks to his World Cup victory. It is still having an effect.”
GettyWHAT HAPPENS NEXT?Haaland is not paying too much attention to the race for prestigious individual accolades and has told France Football when asked if he is capable of pipping Messi to a major honour: “It’s a trick question. I’m definitely up there. Am I the best? Maybe. I know I can still improve a great deal. I’m still young. But yes, I believe I have a chance this year.”
