“I Saw Him So Happy” – Erling Haaland ‘Pleased’ to Grace Ballon d’Or 2023 Event Despite Losing to Lionel Messi, Claims Manchester City Boss

Erling Haaland may just be unlucky. Despite powering Manchester City to a historic treble, the Norweigan didn’t win the Ballon d’Or. The accolade went to Lionel Messi instead. Had it not been a ‘World Cup’ year, the striker was in pole position to finish first. Coming second in the rankings, the Norwegian has a mentality, unlike other players claims his coach Pep Guardiola.

Haaland scored 52 goals in his debut season with Manchester City. This performance saw him finish 2nd in the Ballon d’Or. An improvement from his 10th-placed finish in the previous year.

Guardiola reveals that Erling Haaland was pleased despite Messi’s win

During a recent press conference, Guardiola was asked whether Haaland was disappointed in not winning the award. The Spaniard’s response was quite surprising. He said, “I would say that I saw him so happy to be a contender close with Messi and Mbappe. It was a good night for Man City.” Guardiola also congratulated Lionel Messi and Aitana Bonmati on their awards. Shedding light on his expectations from his number nine, he revealed “He has his whole career ahead of him and he can say ‘okay, maybe next season.’ He was really pleased to be there.‘

One thing that went against Haaland was his international performance. Norway didn’t qualify for the World Cup. It is also doubtful whether he will play at the Euro 2024. The lack of major moments in the Norway shirt definitely impacted Haaland’s chances for the Ballon d’Or this year.

Lionel Messi vs Erling Haaland: Stats Compared For 2023 Ballon d’Or Calendar Year

Should Haaland move on from Manchester City for better chances at the Ballon d’Or?

Manchester City are, perhaps, the most in-form soccer team at the moment. However, as a soccer institution, they are behind the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich. Even in England, Liverpool and Manchester United enjoy more popularity and coverage. Considering the Ballon d’Or awards are voted by journalists, this becomes a significant matter. Also, no Manchester City player in history has won the coveted prize. Haaland has a contract at Manchester City until 2027. Unless Man City wins the treble again, Haaland’s chances of winning a Ballon d’Or with the English side don’t look the best.

Do you believe that Erling Haaland deserved to win the Ballon d’Or ahead of Messi? Let us know in the comments below.

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