The striker from Manchester City experienced an outstanding inaugural season at Etihad Stadium, registering 52 goals across various competitions and contributing to the club’s historic treble. However, the Norwegian fell short in the race for the 2023 Ballon d’Or, securing the second position. The prestigious award was claimed by Lionel Messi, the Argentine and Inter Miami star, who led La Albiceleste to their third World Cup title in December 2022.

When asked if Messi has to hang up his boots for him to win the top individual awards, Haaland told a press conference on Tuesday: “Good question! I don’t know. I’ve won it all but I’m only 23, so I want to win it all again. Messi is the best that has ever played, maybe he has to retire for someone else to be regarded as the best.”

Though the Norwegian striker hasn’t matched his extraordinary goal-scoring pace from the previous season, he reмɑιns the leading candidate for the Premier League Golden Boot, netting 18 league goals in 22 appearances. Meanwhile, Messi is enjoying a successful start to the new MLS 2024 season with Inter Miami, contributing to four goals in three games.