The Ballon d’Or debate is at an all-time high. Former soccer players are debating and reasoning as to why they select Team Erling Haaland or Team Lionel Messi. Honestly, both teams come out with extremely good reasons. There hasn’t been so much anticipation and excitement over this title for quite some time. Amidst the chaos, a Premier League icon recently expressed his reasons to stand on the side of Haaland.

The top two candidates go head-to-head in every department. Pundits share their views as fans await the final result.

Manchester City legend stays loyal to his former club

It’s October, and we have reached the month where we can start counting the days. The Ballon d’Or this year will be a thrilling one. Earlier Craig Burley and Darren Bent shared their views on who should win the Ballon d’Or 2023. Now, Shaun Wright-Phillips, former Manchester City winger, explains his stance.

The former City player explained why Lionel Messi is out of the question to win the Ballon d’Or. He said, “The World Cup has never been a part of it (Ballon d’Or) so for whatever reason I don’t know why people are talking about it. I think what Haaland has done for city is phenomenal. I think he deserves it.”

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Shaun further added to his reasons why Erling Haaland should be crowned the winner as he said, “Hands down he (Haaland) should win the Ballon d’Or. I think if you go over the last 10 years, the person who’s won the Ballon d’or is the person who’s played for the team that’s won the Champions League and scored the most goals.”

Both Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi have had a great season. While the 7x Ballon d’Or winner, Messi looks to bag his 8th one, Haaland will be likely much more eager and anticipating the result. But who deserves it more? What’s your take on the comparison below?

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Team Erling Haaland vs. Team Lionel Messi – who’s had a better year?

In the ongoing debate over who’s had a better year between Team Erling Haaland and Team Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland’s achievements have been nothing short of spectacular. In his debut season at Manchester City, he secured a historic treble–FA Cup, Premier League, and UEFA Champions League. Haaland was also bestowed with the prestigious European Golden Boot, further solidifying his claim to greatness. His record-breaking 36 goals in the Premier League and 12 goals as the top scorer in the Champions League make a compelling case for his recognition.

On the other side of the pitch, Lionel Messi has not been short of remarkable feats either. As a favorite for the Ballon d’Or, his World Cup victory in Qatar stands as a monumental achievement. Messi’s exceptional skills were showcased in the World Cup final, where he was named the MVP and received the coveted World Cup Golden Ball. His Silver Boot for scoring 7 goals and providing 3 assists in the tournament added another layer of brilliance, along with his Ligue 1 championship triumph.

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The debate rages on as the soccer world awaits the final verdict. While Haaland’s numerous accolades present a strong case for him, Messi’s World Cup victory carries significant weight. Regardless of the award’s outcome, both players have undeniably etched their names as two of the game’s finest. Who do you think should win the Ballon d’Or? Let us know in the comments below.