Messi Must Hang Up His Boots For Haaland To Be The Best, Says City Star
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has hailed Lionel Messi as the greatest footballer of all time, but admitted that he hopes the Argentine legend will retire soon so that he can claim the title.
Haaland, who scored 52 goals in 53 games for City last season, was widely expected to win the 2023 Ballon d’Or and FIFA The Best awards, but was pipped by Messi, who won his eighth and seventh trophies respectively.
The Norwegian prodigy, who joined City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, said he was not disappointed by the outcome, but rather motivated to improve his game and challenge Messi for the accolades.
“I have a lot of respect for Messi. He is the best player that has ever played football. Maybe he has to retire for someone else to be regarded as the best,” Haaland told reporters ahead of City’s Champions League clash with FC Copenhagen.
Haaland, who helped City win the treble of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League last season, said he was not satisfied with his achievements and wanted to repeat them this season.
“I’ve won it all but I’m only 23, so I want to win it all again. I want to be consistent and keep scoring goals for my team. I want to win more trophies and awards,” he said.
Haaland also revealed his ambition to join Messi in the exclusive club of players who have won the treble twice in their careers. Messi achieved the feat with Barcelona in 2009 and 2015, and is currently playing for Inter Miami in the MLS.
“It would be amazing to win the treble twice. Messi is one of the few players who have done it. He is an inspiration for me and many others. I hope to follow his footsteps and make history,” he said.
