"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."
"They are both inspirational," Haaland said. "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."
"It's special to come here and play," Haaland said after Wednesday's win. "It's a massive club which achieved so much, especially in this competition. It's special to come here and win for the first time [for him] and score for the first time at the Bernabeu."
Erling Haaland praises Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi for their sustained elite performance and longevity. Ronaldo, age 40 with over 950 goals, extended his Al Nassr contract through June 2027 and is expected to captain Portugal at the 2026 World Cup. Messi, age 38 and eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, signed with Inter Miami through 2028, won the MLS Cup, and earned consecutive MLS MVP and Golden Boot honors. Haaland highlighted Ronaldo's body care and resilience. Haaland scored his first goal at the Bernabeu in a Champions League win and looks forward to his first World Cup appearance.
Read at ESPN.com
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