Man City sensation Erling Haaland explains why battle with PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe isn’t the new Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo

The Manchester City striker has become a modern day sensation, with prolific spells at Red Bull Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund being replicated in English football. Haaland hit 56 goals for club and country in 2022-23, edging him two efforts clear of Paris Saint-Germain superstar Mbappe when it comes to collective tallies.

Haaland and Mbappe are expected to become the next icons of the football world, as Messi and Ronaldo approach the end of their remarkable careers, but the Norwegian hot shot insists that he pays little attention to the exploits of a supposed rival. Haaland has told France Football when asked about duelling with Mbappe: “That's what everyone thinks, but you have to emphasise just how crazy the things Messi and Cristiano have done. You also have to remember that they're still doing it, even if they're getting older. They're still fantastic players. But I never talk about myself being against other players, it's not my way of seeing things. I focus on myself, I only try to be better every day, to continue enjoying what I do and being the best version of myself.”

While Haaland rarely focuses on what Mbappe is up to, he does enjoy watching those performing at the peak of their powers in action. The 23-year-old added: “Yes, of course, I watch a lot of football on TV. I love football, I've always loved it, and you could say it takes up all of my time, whether professionally or in my life. But there are so many games and training sessions that I have to think about recovery too.”

Haaland and Mbappe are both on the shortlist for the 2023 Ballon d’Or, with seven-time winner Messi still the favourite to collect another Golden Ball after helping Argentina to World Cup glory at the end of last year.