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Haaland Downplays Messi–Ronaldo Comparisons as Scoring Run Continues

The Manchester City striker says team success comes before records following Guardiola’s praise.

Overview

  • Erling Haaland said he is "far off" Messi and Ronaldo and "just Erling," pushing back on comparisons raised after his brace against Bournemouth.
  • He has 26 goals in 16 matches for club and country this season, including 13 in 10 Premier League games and four in three in the Champions League.
  • His Premier League tally is 98 goals in 107 appearances, putting him on pace to reach 100 faster than anyone, though he says records are not on his mind.
  • Pep Guardiola likened Haaland’s influence to Messi and Ronaldo, named him to City’s leadership group, and praised his humility and team-first approach.
  • Haaland said he is working to improve aspects of his game such as headers and highlighted his priority of taking Norway to the World Cup as City prepare to face Borussia Dortmund.