Lionel Messi winning the Ballon d’Or over Erling Haaland has been controversial. Many fans and experts alike have questioned the legitimacy of this decision, with some even calling it a robbery. Among them, the recent one to have raised their voice in dissent is popular journalist Rich Fay who believes that Haaland’s path to claiming the Ballon d’Or will be an arduous one and starts with the FIFA Club World Cup.

The FIFA Club World Cup is set to kick start in a few hours with its first match featuring Al Ittihad facing Auckland City. Meanwhile, Manchester City, one of the favorites to win the competition, are already in the semi-finals. This is also a huge opportunity for the Norwegian striker to win a FIFA-organized tournament.

Erling Haaland told to win Club World Cup to not repeat the ‘robbery’

A recent video uploaded by Manchester City News on X further fuelled the debate surrounding Haaland’s Ballon d’Or snub. Rich Fay, a senior writer for the Manchester Evening News, made a strong argument for the striker’s case, stating, “Let’s face it, he(Erling Haaland) was robbed of the Ballon d’Or because he wasn’t at an international tournament.”

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Fay then went on to point out Norway’s failure to qualify for the UEFA Euro 2024 to express his concern for the Man City star’s future chances, saying, “And he won’t get that opportunity in the next two years.” For Haaland to be a legitimate contender for the Ballon d’Or next season, Fay suggests that he will have to replicate his astonishing goal-scoring record from the previous year.

The journalist further added, “He’s got to win nearly as many trophies or certainly excel in the Champions League, excel in the Premier League, and then probably you do need to win something like the Club World Cup to really reemphasize that.” A triumph in this Club World Cup would undoubtedly strengthen Erling Haaland’s case for the Ballon d’Or. But, there is a possibility that he may be unable to participate.

Haaland could be ruled out following an injury

During an International break in November, Haaland sustained a foot injury. Nonetheless, after missing one game, he returned to play with Manchester City. However, he was absent from their recent match against Luton Town due to stress on his ankle bone. Now, recent rumors suggest that the talented 23-year-old could miss at least two upcoming matches.

Dive Deeper: Possible Replacements For Erling Haaland As Manchester City Star Suffers Injury Before Luton Town Trip

This means he won’t be able to play in the Club World Cup. This unfortunate circumstance would be a significant setback for both Haaland and the club. However, it should be noted that his availability for the Club World Cup has not been definitively ruled out yet, leaving room for optimism.

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