Ballon d'Or 2023: Lothar Matthaus claims Lionel Messi did not deserve to win 8th Golden Ball
FootballMan City Star Places Atletico Striker Ahead of Goal Machine Erling Haaland
- Rodri has rated Alvaro Morata ahead of his own Manchester City teammate, Erling Haaland
- However, he was quick to suggest Haaland has the potential to become one of the best-ever
- The Citizens' defensive midfielder plays alongside Morata with the Spanish national team
Manchester City's defensive midfielder, Rodri faced the challenging decision of selecting between his clubmate, Erling Haaland and Atletico Madrid striker, Alvaro Morata.
Regarded as the premier player in his position currently, the Spaniard was posed with this dilemma ahead of La Roja's Euro 2024 qualifying encounter against Cyprus.
Haaland stands as one of football's most sought-after talents, recently securing second position in the 2023 Ballon d'Or Awards, only trailing behind Lionel Messi.
The 23-year-old has been a powerhouse for Manchester City, consistently breaking records and showcasing remarkable goal-scoring prowess on the field.
In comparison, Alvaro Morata has been enjoying a splendid run of form in the current campaign. According to Transfermarkt, he has 15 goal contributions (12 goals and three assists) in 15 games across all competitions.
When pressed to choose between the Norwegian sensation and Atletico Madrid's No. 9, Rodri surprisingly favoured his compatriot over his teammate.
The midfield anchor was quick to point out Morata's sustained excellence, emphasising the striker's consistent performances season after season.
"Obviously Morata," he said as quoted by Mundo Deportivo. "The truth is that I am very lucky to play with them. Álvaro has been performing for many years in the national team. He is up there with the greats of our history in a number of goals, and there is little to say about Erling because he has everything ahead of him to be one of the best."
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Simeone claims Morata and Haaland are on par
Sports Brief also reported on Atletico Madrid manager, Diego Simeone boldly asserting the belief that Morata is on par with Haaland.
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FootballThe long-serving Rojiblancos tactician drew parallels between his in-form striker and Manchester City's Norwegian goal machine.
Simeone's claim may in fact hold merit, especially considering the 31-year-old's goal-scoring form in the 2023/24 campaign so far.