Despite 5 Goal Haul, Rio Ferdinand Snubs Erling Haaland From Combined Manchester XI as Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Aguero Secure Spots

Looks like Erling Haaland is back at it! After spending two months out injured, the Norwegian responded to his goal-scoring critics with a remarkable five-goal haul against Luton Town in the FA Cup. Yet, despite this outstanding display signaling his return to form, Haaland’s efforts were not enough to secure him a spot in Rio Ferdinand’s combined Manchester XI, with illustrious names like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Aguero making their way.

The anticipation for the upcoming Manchester derby on Sunday is reaching a fever pitch. As fans eagerly await the clash, Rio Ferdinand and Stephen Howson sat down on the Rio Presents Five podcast to choose a combined Manchester XI from 2000 onwards. Interestingly, when the talk of attackers came, names like CR7, Aguero, Rooney, Van Persie, and Van Nistelrooy were taken. Unfortunately, Haaland’s name wasn’t even mentioned in the discussion. After choosing CR7 and Rooney on either flank, Ferdinand said, “I’m going to be controversial there and I’m going to go [with] Aguero.”

The England icon snubbed Manchester City’s current No. 9 in favor of the former one. Additionally, even Howson didn’t mention Haaland and agreed with Ferdidnand’s choice of attack. Speaking of the remaining team, Van der Saar was the keeper ahead of De Gea and Ederson, with Kyle Walker, Vincent Kompany, Rio Ferdinand, and Patrice Evra making the backline. Paul Scholes, Roy Keane, and Kevin De Bryune made the center half of the pitch. 

Nevertheless, this team will certainly stir debate in the soccer world. While Erling Haaland didn’t cut into Rio Ferdinand’s best XI, the Norwegian striker’s team didn’t have a single Manchester player! 

Erling Haaland goes icon-heavy, as his 5-A-side team has none of his current teammates or rivals!

In the Official Man City Podcast, Erling Haaland revealed his dream team lineup, which featured some of soccer’s most iconic figures. While emphasizing the necessity of a couple of Brazilians, he selected Ronaldinho; Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Paolo Maldini. Despite his admiration for his teammate Ederson, the Norwegian ultimately opted for Iker Casillas for goalkeeping duties.

Haaland’s five-a-side team raises a few eyebrows, as it doesn’t include a single Manchester City or United player. Nevertheless, he will be looking to shine in the upcoming Manchester derby. If the lethal striker manages to put on a show on Sunday evening, then perhaps he’ll certainly force Ferdinand to question the decision not to include him in the all-time Manchester XI. 

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.

READ MORE: Erling Haaland Opens Up on Banter With Manchester United Fans on the Streets