Erling Haaland links Lionel Messi to response after being asked whether Cristiano Ronaldo is an inspiration to him

Erling Haaland recently hailed Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as inspirations. He lauded their achievements and longevity to be able to perform at the top level for 15 years.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are widely regarded as the two greatest players of all time. They have been competing at the top level for over 15 years, earning numerous individual and team achievements. They have also inspired a host of modern footballers, who hail them as their idols.

In an interview with TNT Brasil, Manchester City star Erling Haaland was asked if he saw Ronaldo as his inspiration. He responded (h/t ESPN):

"Of course. I think for every single football player on this planet, both Cristiano and Messi are an example of what you should do, how you should do to be able to perform at the highest level for 15 years in the greatest leagues."

Hailing their longevity, Haaland added:

"They are both inspirational. Cristiano maybe has let us in a bit more on the things he's been doing. Look at how he takes care of his body! This is amazing. He's 40, it's incredible to still be able to play [at that age]. All respect to him for being able to do that. It's not easy. "

Cristiano Ronaldo, 40, and Lionel Messi, 38, are also expected to feature at the FIFA World Cup next year.

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Pep Guardiola likened Erling Haaland's numbers to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi earlier this season

Erling Haaland has been putting up some incredible stats for Manchester City and Norway in recent years. He has broken numerous goalscoring records at just 25 and is in prolific form this season.

The Norwegian striker scored a brace as Manchester City beat Bournemouth 3-1 in the Premier League on November 2. After the game, City manager Pep Guardiola likened Haaland to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, saying:

"This is what it’s like if you play with Messi or Ronaldo, his influence is so big. You see the numbers of that guy? Of course, he’s that level. Messi and Ronaldo have done it for 15 years, but this is the level. The first goal, the way he shoots the ball, it’s like, ‘I am going to score’. He has that hunger. It’s top. I said how incredibly coachable and manageable he is."

Haaland has scored 21 goals and provided three assists in just 21 games across competitions for Manchester City this season.