“The problem is you have a guy named Lionel Messi” – Portuguese YouTuber claims Erling Haaland deserves Ballon d’Or, but explains why he won’t win

Portuguese YouTuber Anthony Machado, better known as AA0skillz, recently shared his thoughts on why Lionel Messi is more likely to win the Ballon d'Or than Erling Haaland. Machado said that Argentina's World Cup triumph was an iconic moment in the Inter Miami forward's career.

He said (via his YouTube channel):

"Haaland was incredible. He had an outstanding season. Haaland did exactly what you’re supposed to do to win a Ballon d’Or. He got all the trophies you need and he got all the goals he needed. I think he did everything to deserve the trophy. The problem is you have a guy named Messi on the other side of you and for Messi, winning the world cup means so much and it’s so significant."

He added:

"For me, Haaland deserved it, he had a better year than Messi when it comes to like all that but I think what Messi achieved in the World Cup that is the coolest thing and the most exciting thing you can win in football. Achieving that and also putting up the performance that he put up in the World Cup and who he is weighs so heavy because it’s like a cherry on top of a perfect career."

The two attackers are the frontrunners to win the Ballon d'Or this season. Haaland had a sensational debut season with Manchester City, scoring 52 goals in all competitions as he led Pep Guardiola's side to a historic treble.

Messi, on the other hand, did not enjoy as much success at club level but played a key role as Argentina lifted the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

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Brazilian icon picks between Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland in Ballon d'Or race

Ronaldo backed the Argentine superstar.

Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario has backed Lionel Messi to win the 2023 Ballon d'Or over Erling Haaland. He heaped praise on the Argentine for leading his side to glory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

He said (via TNT Sports):

"The Ballon d'Or should go to him [Lionel Messi], without a doubt. What Messi did in the World Cup was special. It reminded me of the campaigns of Pelé and Maradona."

Haaland enjoyed historic success at Manchester City, scoring 52 goals in all competitions as Manchester City won the Premier League, FA Cup and the Champions League.

Messi registered 41 goal contributions for Paris Saint-Germain last season before making a move to Inter Miami this summer. He bagged seven goals and three assists in the World Cup, leading La Albiceleste to their third title.