Erling Haaland: The Next Great Rival to Messi and Ronaldo?
In the world of football, the names Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have long been synonymous with excellence and record-breaking achievements. However, Manchester City midfielder Rodri believes that one of his teammates, Erling Haaland, has the potential to match their extraordinary exploits over the next decade.
Rodri’s Bold Claim
Rodri recently made headlines after winning the Ballon d’Or, marking a historic moment as it was the first time since 2003 that neither Messi nor Ronaldo was nominated for the prestigious award. Despite his triumph, Rodri acknowledges the challenges faced by defensive midfielders in garnering similar recognition, as goals are often the key currency in award ceremonies.
In an interview with Cadena Cope, Rodri stated, “The most decisive player in the world in terms of numbers is Erling Haaland. He is also very young and will be for many years. I would say that he is the only player who can come close to Cristiano and [Lionel] Messi.”
Haaland’s Impressive Statistics
Erling Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess is undeniable. Since joining Manchester City, he has netted 105 goals in just 114 matches, showcasing a remarkable scoring rate. His previous stints at Borussia Dortmund and RB Salzburg further highlight his talent, with 86 goals in 89 games and 29 goals in 27 matches, respectively. Additionally, Haaland has scored 34 goals in 37 appearances for the Norwegian national team.
When considering his entire senior career, including his early days in Norway with Bryne and Molde, Haaland boasts a staggering total of 274 goals in 333 appearances. This translates to an impressive goal every 88.24 minutes for his club career and a goal every 88 minutes for his national team.
The Longevity Factor
While Haaland’s statistics are certainly impressive, the true test of greatness lies in longevity. Both Messi and Ronaldo have maintained phenomenal goal-scoring records well into their 30s, a feat that has set them apart from their peers. As of now, Ronaldo has amassed 908 career goals in 1,250 appearances, averaging a goal every 112 minutes, while Messi has scored 850 goals in 1,081 appearances, with an average of one goal every 104 minutes.
As the football world watches closely, Erling Haaland’s trajectory suggests that he could be the next player to challenge the legacies of Messi and Ronaldo. With his youth, talent, and remarkable goal-scoring ability, Haaland has the potential to become a defining figure in football over the next decade. Only time will tell if he can sustain
