Lionel Messi was informed that winning the Ballon d’Or in 2023 would be “a scandal,” and Erling Haaland received support from a Premier League foe following Man City’s treble-winning exploits.

Michail Antonio thinks it would be a “scandal” if Lionel Messi wins the 2023 Ballon d’Or ahead of Erling Haaland.

The West Ham forward claimed that despite Messi leading Argentina to World Cup victory in December, Haaland—who netted 52 goals for Manchester City in all competitions last season—should be the winner of the award.

Antonio remarked on the Footballer’s Football Podcast: “I recognize that Messi’s World Cup victory is significant, but you can’t ignore a treble-winning club and the record-breaking additions Haaland made to it. He merits winning the Ballon d’Or. It’s a scandal if he doesn’t understand it.”

Newcastle forward Callum Wilson agreed, adding: “What Haaland did last season can’t be overlooked. If you take away international football and compare statistically… Haaland should win the award. You can’t look past Messi winning his first World Cup as it’s a big contributing factor, but club football-wise he’s been playing in America which is very different to Haaland in the Premier League.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE: After breaking the record for the most goals scored in a single Premier League season (36) and helping City win the treble, Haaland is up for the Ballon d’Or best men’s player award alongside the likes of Messi, Kylian Mbappe and City teammate Rodri. According to reports, Messi – who joined Inter Miami in July – has been told that he will win the award for a record-extending eighth time.

• Rodri believes Lionel Messi will win the Ballon d’Or in 2023, ahead of Man City teammate Erling Haaland, who has ruled himself out due to a ‘lack of marketing.’

IN THREE PHOTOS:GettyGettyGetty Images

WHAT NEXT FOR HAALAND AND MESSI?: Messi’s club season is over after Inter Miami failed to qualify for the MLS playoffs. Haaland, meanwhile, has already scored nine goals in all competitions this season for City, who will face arch-rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford in their next Premier League game.