Manchester City’s advancement to the Champions League final has opened up an opportunity for Erling Haaland to contend for the Ballon d’Or.
Although the Norwegian striker didn’t score in the two-legged fixture against Real Madrid, he has netted an impressive 12 goals in this season’s elite competition.
Now, at 22 years old, Haaland stands as a strong contender alongside Lionel Messi, Karim Benzema, and Kylian Mbappe for football’s most prestigious individual award.
Here are three reasons why Haaland could win the 2022 Ballon d’Or:
1.Manchester City’s European success this season
Under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, City is aiming for a remarkable treble, a feat accomplished by Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United in the 1998-1999 season.
With City as favorites to clinch the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League titles, Haaland would benefit greatly from these achievements. If City secures all three club competitions, there is no doubt that Haaland will find himself on the podium alongside his strong competitors.
2.Haaland’s exceptional scoring prowess in his debut season with City
Haaland has justified his significant summer transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester.
His impressive tally of 52 goals across all competitions is clear evidence that the 22-year-old deserves consideration for the Ballon d’Or, alongside the likes of Lionel Messi and Karim Benzema.
3.The circumstances of other top contenders
Aside from the World Cup trophy, Messi and Mbappe are striving to secure the Ligue 1 title with Paris Saint-Germain, holding a five-point lead over second-placed Lens with three games remaining.
Meanwhile, Benzema will only settle for the already-won Copa del Rey with Real Madrid, and Robert Lewandowski’s sole accolade this season is the La Liga title.
However, even without World Cup participation, if Haaland emerges as the top scorer in the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup, it would significantly enhance his chances of dethroning Messi.
Pulse
