Manchester City striker Erling Haaland narrowly missed out on winning a first Ballon d’Or, with Lionel Messi scooping the award for the eighth time.
As expected, the Argentine superstar beat off the competition at last night’s ceremony in Paris.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano reported days prior that Messi was expected to beat Haaland to the award and sure enough last night, the 36-year-old was named the winner.
Haaland had been the recipient of the Gerd Muller Trophy earlier in the night for being the highest scoring male player in 2022/23. But he came second to Messi in the Ballon d’Or rankings, with Kylian Mbappe coming third.
City stars Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri came fourth and fifth respectively.
Messi gave a good speech upon receiving the award – and had a message directly for Haaland…
Lionel Messi sends message to Erling Haaland after beating Manchester City striker to Ballon d’Or
Messi enjoyed another brilliant season, which included him finally winning the World Cup with Argentina.
His performances in Qatar were likely a big reason for him winning his eighth Ballon d’Or.
Haaland can count himself a bit unlucky considering his incredible goalscoring exploits. But there’s no doubt in Messi’s mind that the Norwegian will win it in the future.
He said in his acceptance speech (quoted by the Independent): “Haaland and Mbappe will win the Ballon d’Or one day.
“Erling deserved it very much too, he has won Premier League, Champions League while being the top scorer of everything. This award could have been yours today too.
“I’m sure in the next years you will win it.”
Haaland stands to win several Ballon d’Or
Haaland will be disappointed to have missed out last night. But there is no shame in losing to the greatest footballer to have ever played the game.
It was actually suggested ahead of the ceremony that Haaland is optimistic about winning in the future.
Haaland was truly phenomenal in 2022/23, and some are not happy that he only came second this time around.
But his time will definitely come. He’s only 23 and he stands to be a multi-Ballon d’Or winner.
The hardest thing to do in football is to score goals, and that is something Haaland is simply incredible at. Furthermore, the striker is known for having a remarkable work ethic, mentality and level of professionalism.
So there is a very good chance Messi’s prediction will come true.
