The anticipation is building for the next Ballon d’Or, with reports suggesting that Lionel Messi is poised to secure an unprecedented eighth title. However, one prominent figure, former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola, has expressed a different perspective, arguing that Messi may not be the most deserving candidate this time.
Guardiola, now at the helm of Manchester City, offered an alternative choice for the prestigious accolade. “Haaland should win – yes,” he stated, referring to the prolific Erling Haaland, who has had a remarkable impact since joining the club. “We won the treble, and he scored 50 million goals. Egotistically I would say I want Erling because he helped us to achieve what we achieved.”
The Spanish manager’s support for Haaland is not to diminish Messi’s legendary status in the world of football. Messi remains one of the greatest players in the sport’s history, having earned the Ballon d’Or on seven previous occasions. In fact, Guardiola acknowledges Messi’s incredible talent and success during their time together at Barcelona. Messi’s exceptional performances contributed to Guardiola’s two Champions League victories as a manager.
“The Ballon d’Or has to be two sections. One for Messi, and then look for the others,” Guardiola quipped, emphasizing the gulf between Messi and the rest of the contenders. “The worst season of Messi is the best for the rest.”
In the 2021-2022 season, Erling Haaland made an indelible impact on Manchester City. He scored an impressive 52 goals, assisting the club in securing a historic treble – the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League titles. Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess and versatility have made him a standout performer and a formidable force on the pitch.
As the world awaits the official announcement of the Ballon d’Or winner, the debate continues about who truly deserves the title. Messi’s legacy is secure, but there is growing support for recognizing the achievements of a new generation of players like Erling Haaland.
For Guardiola, the focus extends beyond individual awards. In his current role at Manchester City, he remains committed to nurturing the talent of Haaland, whose goal-scoring contributions have been vital to the club’s success.
