At the Globe Soccer Awards on Friday, Erling Haaland wore a stern expression as Cristiano Ronaldo referred to himself as the “best goalscorer” in the world.
At the Dubai presentation, the Manchester City goal scorer defeated Lionel Messi and Ronaldo to win the men’s best player award.
Erling Haaland sits in the crowd at the 14th edition of the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai
Cristiano Ronaldo labelled himself as the ‘best goalscorer’ in the world at Friday’s award ceremony
But even though Ronaldo implied that Haaland should have won the award, the Portuguese player continued to support his own goal-scoring abilities following yet another outstanding year.
The 39-year-old legend won the Globe Soccer Maradona Award for the most goals scored in a calendar year to commemorate scoring 54 goals for club nation last season, more than any other player.
In addition, he received the accolades of being the best player in the Middle East and the year’s fan favorite.
While Haaland and his Man City teammates looked on, Ronaldo talked about his own accomplishments during his podium speech, which also included hints about a potential retirement in the future.
“I was the top scorer of goals.” I’m proud because I had to defeat the young lions, like Haaland,’ declared Ronaldo.
“I’m proud of myself, and I still look good,” he continued, grinning on stage.
The Al Nassr striker, who had previously played for Juventus, Real Madrid, Sporting Lisbon, and Manchester United, loved the spotlight as he won another individual championship.
Cameras switched to reveal Haaland with both arms resting on the side of his seat, but he responded to the remarks with little emotion.
Unlike Ronaldo, though, Haaland thanked his teammates during his winning speech at Manchester City for enabling him to shine in his first season as an English football player, scoring 52 goals to help City win the legendary Treble.
“To start with, the guys who are sitting here [my teammates] are a great group of people.” and, naturally, my manager.
“It’s an amazing club, and the support we players receive from the management and club executives is tremendous.” I have a great time being there.
Before playing Burnley again on January 31, Manchester City is presently practicing in the United Arab Emirates.