Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi & 3 Football Greats – Erling Haaland Picks His 5-a-Side Dream Team

Imagine a five-a-side soccer match featuring some of the greatest players to ever grace the pitch. No teammates, no tactical constraints, just pure, simple skill and magic. That’s the scenario Erling Haaland, the Manchester City phenomenon, showcased when asked to name his ultimate dream team. But there was one twist in his lineup – the Manchester City players are strictly off-limits. So, who did the Norwegian striker choose to build his fantasy five-a-side team? Let’s find out.

The City’s prolific goal machine recently found himself on The Official Man City Podcast. In an exclusive conversation, the star striker unveiled his selection which included some of the iconic figures in soccer’s history. “I think I need to take a couple of Brazilians then. I would like to see Ronaldinho, [Lionel] Messi, Cristiano [Ronaldo, [Paolo] Maldini to be back there, then I need a ‘keeper, no? I would take [Iker] Casillas,” Haaland said.

Erling also expressed his admiration for City’s Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson. As the Brazilian is known for his shooting power and passing accuracy, Haaland wanted to include him, however, he didn’t. “I would love Ederson because Ederson in these five-a-side games, if he is able to shoot, he would score 15 goals!” the Norwegian stated with a chuckle. Haaland’s dream team, though excluding the star-studded Manchester City squad, is a fascinating blend of individual brilliance and talent.

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Haaland’s 5-a-side Dream Team: Casillas (GK); Maldini (CB); Ronaldinho (CAM); Lionel Messi (CAM); Cristiano Ronaldo (ST)

Pep Guardiola impressed with Erling Haaland’s return

Outside the fantasy world, Erling Haaland made his much-awaited return to the Manchester City lineup on Monday against Brentford. Following Haaland’s return to the pitch after a two-month absence, City boss Pep Guardiola lauded the young striker’s impact on the team’s performance. Despite missing a few scoring opportunities in the first half, Haaland’s presence created space for Phil Foden, leading to a resounding victory.

“Thanks to Erling being there, Julian, Kevin, and Phil had more space. Without him, it would have been more difficult so he helped us a lot today,” remarked Guardiola during the post-match conference. Phil Foden was undoubtedly the star of the match, as the 23-year-old star stole the show with his hat-trick. Foden’s remarkable display overshadowed the much-anticipated return of the Haaland and De Bruyne duo.

The Cityzens now sets its sights on the upcoming Premier League fixture against Everton at the Etihad Stadium. As Guardiola’s men will be aiming to reclaim the top spot in the league standings, Haaland’s presence surely promises to be a game-changer.

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