Erling Haaland Dishes Out Retirement Advice to Lionel Messi: ’The Best’

Lionel Messi is in the twilight of his career, and retirement isn’t far away. His exit, albeit a temporary one from the national side, following the Copa America disappointment in 2016, left millions of soccer fans shattered. One can only imagine the unimaginable amount of grief when he decides to hang up his boots for good! But what retirement advice can you give to one of the most illustrious names in soccer history? Manchester City hitman Erling Haaland offers an interesting take.

For Erling Haaland & Co, a tricky encounter against Copenhagen awaits in the Champions League next. The Norwegian ace’s incredible performances last season resulted in a historic treble and saw him compared to the 8-time Ballon d’Or winner. Can he inspire the Cityzens to a second consecutive treble?

Erling Haaland keeps it simple regarding Messi

In a recent presser, Erling Haaland was all praise for the Inter Miami maestro. He said, “Messi is the best that has ever played. Maybe he has to retire for someone else to be regarded as the best.” Having missed out on the Ballon d’Or and FIFA Best to the Argentine wizard, one would have expected Haaland to hold a slight grudge toward the soccer icon. But it seems that’s not the case. Furthermore, regarding his career aspirations, he said, “I’ve won it all, but I’m only 23, so I want to win it all again.“

Despite winning more trophies and racking in more goals (50 vs 28), Erling Haaland fell second to Messi in the quest for the Ballon d’Or. Why was that? His teammate Bernardo Silva offered the best possible explanation. Per Silva, Haaland needed to be more involved in games. It is something the Argentine excels at. Perhaps that could explain why Haaland considers Messi the ‘best’, until his retirement.

Speaking of Messi’s retirement, what does the Argentine icon have to say regarding his exit from the beautiful game? Let’s find out below.

Read More: ‘Outstanding’ Erling Haaland Offered Shrewd Attacking Advice by Thierry Henry Amid Big Game Struggles

Lionel Messi reveals the ‘moment’ he plans on retirement

In a recent Apple TV documentary, Messi revealed his future plans. The playmaker said, “As long as I have physical health and as long as my body responds, I will try to continue playing.” Moreover, he also discussed his retirement plans. Messi revealed, “Then one day will come when I no longer enjoy playing and training.” As per Messi, this is the moment he will call quits.

However, in a relief to soccer fans, Messi added, “Currently I am still enjoying it a lot.” Hence, it seems like retirement is not imminent, and he will continue to delight soccer fans with his wizardry, at least until 2026.

Do you agree with Erling Haaland of Messi being the ‘best’? Let us know below.

Read More: Rodri Says ‘Immortal’ Lionel Messi Deserved the Ballon d’Or Over Erling Haaland