Erling Haaland has downplayed comparisons between himself and football icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting that no one will ever come close to their extraordinary goalscoring feats.
“Haaland: ‘I’m Far From Messi and Ronaldo’”
The Manchester City striker, 25, has already scored 26 goals this season for club and country, taking his career tally to 327.
However, Haaland remains far behind the legendary duo — Messi has netted 892 career goals, while Ronaldo stands at an astonishing 952 and is eyeing the 1,000-goal mark.
When asked if he considers himself on their level, Haaland was quick to dismiss the idea. “No, not at all. I am far off. Nobody can get close to those two, so no,” he said.
Since joining City from Borussia Dortmund, Haaland has been relentless in front of goal.
He scored 56 times in his debut season, helping Pep Guardiola’s side secure a historic treble — the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.
This season, he’s on pace to surpass that total if his current form continues.
In the Premier League, Haaland has 98 goals in 107 matches and is closing in on becoming the fastest player to reach 100.
Alan Shearer currently holds that record, reaching the milestone in 124 games.
While Shearer recently tipped Haaland to eventually break his all-time Premier League record of 260 goals, the Norwegian remains focused on his team’s success rather than individual achievements.
“Thinking about records I can break is the last thing on my mind,” Haaland said.
“My job is to help the team win football matches — that’s all I care about.”
Despite his humility, Haaland continues to rewrite records, including becoming the fastest player to reach 50 Champions League goals.
With Norway pushing for a World Cup return, the striker says his biggest goal remains leading his country to a major tournament.
“I’m developing well,” he added. “I’m still the same guy from Bryne — just with more experience and a lot more goals.”
