Before the Champions League Round of 16 clash between FC Copenhagen and Manchester City, forward Erling Haaland praised Lionel Messi as the greatest player in football history.
The Norwegian player acknowledged Messi’s unparalleled impact on the sport, evident in his record-breaking eight Ballon d’Or wins.
Haaland also pointed out Messi’s pivotal role in Argentina’s triumph in the World Cup, highlighting it as a significant achievement that distinguishes him from other players.
“He won those trophies and also won the World Cup. He is the best of all time, in my opinion,” Haaland said.
Asked about his dip in performance lately, the Manchester City striker said, “Last year I scored 36 goals and was the top scorer. This season I am still the top scorer, with 18, so you can think it’s been a good season or not for me.
“I think we are doing quite well as a team, and that’s my goal. I have missed, I have missed many chances, and I will surely miss in the future, and people will criticise me. Do I have to think about it? No.”
In 2023, Lionel Messi secured his eighth Ballon d’Or, triumphing over competitors Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, who finished second and third, respectively.