Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji has expressed his belief that Erling Haaland deserved the 2023 Ballon d’Or over Lionel Messi.
Despite finishing second to Messi in the France Football Golden Ball award on October 30, Haaland was recognized with the Gerd Muller award for his outstanding performance as the most prolific striker last season, scoring 52 goals in 53 games across competitions under Pep Guardiola.
Akanji emphasized Haaland’s remarkable contributions, stating,
“He did everything he could last year. He’s scored 50 goals and won the treble.”
Akanji also highlighted Haaland’s team-oriented focus, expressing optimism that the Norwegian striker will clinch the prestigious individual honor in the future.