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Haaland Downplays Messi-Ronaldo Talk, Stresses Team Focus Before Dortmund

Guardiola's comparison to Messi and Ronaldo prompted a humble response before the Borussia Dortmund tie.

Overview

  • The 25-year-old said he is "far off" Messi and Ronaldo, calling himself "just Erling" and rejecting GOAT debates at his pre-match press conference.
  • He has scored 26 goals in 16 appearances for club and country this season, including 13 in 10 Premier League matches and four in three Champions League games.
  • Haaland acknowledged Alan Shearer's 260-goal Premier League record but said record-chasing is "the last thing" on his mind; he stands on 98 league goals in 107 games.
  • Pep Guardiola likened Haaland's influence to having Messi or Ronaldo in the team and has added him to Manchester City's leadership group, praising his humility and team-first approach.
  • He highlighted Norway's push toward a first World Cup since 1998, leading European qualifying with 12 goals as a win over Estonia on November 13 could secure their place.