Guardiola: Haaland and Messi should both win Ballon d’Or

Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola believes Erling Haaland deserves to win the Ballon d’Or this year.

Haaland has been nominated for the award after scoring 52 goals in City’s treble-winning campaign in 2022-23 - the Norwegian’s first season at the club.

But there is a twist; Guardiola also believes Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi should win the award.

“I always said that the Ballon d’Or had to be of two sections - one for Messi and one for the others,” said the former FC Barcelona boss in his press conference on Friday.

“Haaland should win. We won the treble because he scored 52 goals but, of course, Messi - his worst season is the best of most players. Both deserve it.

“Egotistically, I would say I want Erling because he helped us to achieve what we achieved, I would love it - but I won’t tell you it’s unfair if Leo wins.

“It’s nice that many players for Man City will be there for the first time in many years and challenging for these trophies. That makes us so proud for our organisation.”

Man City host Brighton in Premier League

City welcome Brighton to the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League this weekend and will hope to pick up a much-needed three points after losing to Wolves and fellow title contenders Arsenal.

Guardiola spoke about the job Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi is doing at the club currently playing Europa League football after an excellent 2022-23 campaign.

“He’s converting Brighton into a top club. (Alexis) Mac Allister and (Levi) Colwill have gone but they continue to play at a good level,” Guardiola added.

“Last season was really good too. They qualified for Europe and but for some decisions against them in the last games they could fight to be champions.

“It is one of the toughest tests we have this season and we are going to try and go for it.”