Pep Guardiola Outlines How Erling Haaland Can Succeed Lionel Messi in Winning the Ballon d’Or

Erling Haaland secured the second position at this year’s Ballon d’Or. The Norwegian star fell short of just 105 points, with Lionel Messi clinching the prestigious Golden Ball. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola discussed how Haaland could cement his chances of clinching the Ballon d’Or in the forthcoming year.

The former BvB striker made it to the scoresheet against Young Boys in their UCL fixture, despite his injury concern in the previous match. The lethal striker is far from emulating his ecstatic performance from the previous season for the Citizens. However, Guardiola believes in his capabilities, which could lead him to secure the upcoming Ballon d’Or.

What did Pep Guardiola remark on Erling Haaland for the next Ballon d’Or?

Haaland came close to becoming the best player of the season after scoring 52 goals in domestic fixtures. The Norwegian star’s goal-scoring prowess led Man City to secure their treble, including the 2022 Champions League. However, it was not enough to outdo Lionel Messi for the Ballon d’Or who made a difference by clinching the FIFA World Cup. Pep Guardiola believes Haaland needs to consistently secure crucial titles to surpass La Pulga in the Golden Ball race.

The Spanish coach emphasized the star striker must build a strong partnership with his teammates to maintain their influence in the offensive third of the game. This would enhance Haaland’s scoring capabilities and make him well-suited for the Ballon d’Or over any other soccer star. Guardiola remarked in the press conference, “If he with his mates are able to win a lot of trophies there will be a chance to win it. If don’t he is not going to win it”.

In the interim, Erling Haaland scored an impressive brace in UCL despite his discomfort from the previous Premiere League match. The 24-year-old star’s ecstatic stint in the game helped Man City to continue their 4-match winning streak in the Champions League.

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The Norwegian star made his presence felt against Young Boys

The Sky Blues striker hasn’t missed a single UCL fixture in over a year, after sitting out against Sevilla in the previous season. Haaland suffered a twisted ankle against Bournemouth, which raised concerns about his participation against Young Boys. However, The Norwegian sensation overcame doubts and contributed to the 3-0 triumph against the Swiss side.

Erling Haaland netted his inaugural goal from the penalty spot. He followed it up with the second from a sensational strike on the edge of the box at the 51 minutes. Man City’s marque striker marked his 24 goal in 20 UCL appearances in the group stage fixture. As a result, City could savor their unbeaten run in 27 home games in the Champions League as the season moves ahead.

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