Speaking to the media before the 2nd leg of the Champions League round of 16 clash between Manchester City and FC Copenhagen, Erling Haaland commented on a few topics, including who he thinks is the best in the history of the sport. The Norwegian striker did not hesitate to express his admiration for the Argentinian, placing him at the very top of football’s all-time greats.
🔵🇳🇴 Erling Haaland on new contract talks with Man City: “My focus is mainly now on the pitch”.
“There's a lot of games… two days ago a derby, now Champions League, Sunday is Liverpool — I think I should focus on that”. pic.twitter.com/jBadE3yPPU
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 5, 2024
When asked if Lionel Messi needs to retire for him to win the most coveted individual awards in football, Haaland responded: “Good question! I don’t know. He’s won the World Cup… Messi is the best that has ever played, I think”, acknowledging Messi’s unparalleled achievements in the sport.
Haaland also shed light on his current focus amidst speculation about his future and potential contract talks with Manchester City. “My focus is mainly now on the pitch” he affirmed. Highlighting the demanding schedule that includes significant matches in quick succession, he added, “There’s a lot of games… two days ago a derby, now Champions League, Sunday is Liverpool — I think I should focus on that.”
Discussing his situation at Manchester City, Haaland expressed a sense of appreciation for those around him. “I’m really happy at City, really happy with all the people I’m surrounded by — manager, board, directors…”. While the striker feels settled and pleased with the life in Manchester, he also stated: “I say this now: tomorrow you never know what the future brings, but I am happy”.