Erling Haaland picks his top three best players in the world

Erling Haaland is one of the world’s best footballing talents. Even at just 21 years old, the Norwegian forward’s reputation precedes him – and has the numbers to prove it.

In just 79 games for Borussia Dortmund, Haaland has a staggering 80 goals. He’s also notched 21 assists in that period, showing his ability as a team player.

Unfortunately, Haaland has suffered injuries this season, which have limited his game time. However, this hasn’t stopped him putting up crazy numbers.

In 14 Bundesliga appearances, he has scored 16 goals and made five assists. He is third in the golden boot race for this season, impressive considering the reduced playing time.

The Norway international’s amazing talent has unsurprisingly earned him awards and recognition.

FIFA FIFPRO Men’s Team of the Year nod

Haaland was selected for the 2021 FIFA FIFPRO Men’s world 11, a team of the best players in the world from that year. Joining Haaland in the team was fellow Bundesliga striker Lewandowski, plus former Bayern defender David Alaba.

The team also featured numerous Premier League stars. Kevin De Bruyne, Ruben Dias, and Cristiano Ronaldo, plus Chelsea pair Jorginho and N’Golo Kante were all selected.

Finally, PSG pair Lionel Messi and Gianluigi Donnarumma strengthened the side further, with the keeper’s Italy teammate Leonardo Bonucci rounding out the XI.

The team contains an incredible group of players. Undoubtedly, Haaland deserved his spot in the XI with the amazing year he had.

However, when asked about who his top three for men’s best player would be, Haaland said someone who didn’t even make the FIFPRO World 11.

Erling Haaland’s top three

During a recent interview, a Sky Sports journalist asked who Haaland would have voted for in the Men’s Best Player award.

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In this competition, national team captains get to list their top three players from the previous year to determine the victor. Unfortunately, Haaland couldn’t do this as he’s not Norway’s captain.

Surprisingly, Haaland gave Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski top spot.

“I think you have to say Lewandowski,” he said. “So, Lewandowski first. Benzema has also been amazing, but also Messi has been outstanding.

“So, I’d give Benzema and Messi a shared second place [award].”

Lewandowski won the award for FIFA Best men’s player in 2021. He beat Messi into second place, with Liverpool winger Mo Salah finishing third.

It might surprise some that Haaland would have put him first too. This is because Lewandowski plays for Dortmund’s biggest rivals, plus the two strikers are in direct competition for prizes such as the golden boot.

Finally, Karim Benzema and Lionel Messi complete the Norwegian’s stellar top three.

It is clear that there is respect from Haaland to his fellow competitors. Game recognizes game, after all.