Pep Guardiola: Erling Haaland is on the same level as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola recently attracted attention with his statement that Erling Haaland is on par with football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo with his incredible statistics. This statement has sparked a heated debate among fans and experts alike, asking: Is Haaland really on the level of Messi and Ronaldo?

Erling Haaland has been absolutely phenomenal since his arrival at Manchester City. With 91 goals in 100 games, his stats are staggering. Guardiola himself has admitted that he is regularly fascinated by Haaland’s ability to score goals.

But how does he compare to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo at the same stage of their careers, at least purely statistically? At the age of 24, Haaland’s record is comparable to the early stages of just Messi and Ronaldo’s careers.

Messi had 179 goals at the same age, Ronaldo 233. Haaland is therefore very close to them with his 225 goals. But the debate does not end with the number of goals.

Messi and Ronaldo were not only exceptional scorers, but also great playmakers who were able to change the course of a match on their own. Haaland, although an exceptional finisher, has not yet shown a similar comprehensive influence on the game.

An important factor in this comparison is the development of football itself. Today’s game is more focused on team systems where players often have to perform strict tactical tasks. Haaland, playing under Guardiola’s structured system, does not have the same freedom to display technical brilliance as Messi and Ronaldo.

Haaland and his potential to achieve greatness

Although their styles of play and eras differ, Haaland’s potential is undeniable. At just 24 years of age, he has already secured his place among the best strikers in the world.

If he continues at his current pace, he can achieve greatness that will place him alongside such greats as Messi and Ronaldo.

Source: SkySports, Goal.com