Ballon d'Or: Haaland rates his chances of beating Messi to award this year

Erling Haaland has exuded confidence about beating Lionel Messi to win the 2023 edition of the Ballon d'Or award.

The Manchester City hotshot and the Argentine veteran are the two firm favourites to win the prestigious award this year.

According to The Mirror, 30 players have been shortlisted for the award ahead of its ceremony slated for October 30 in Paris.

The nominees include Karim Benzema, who won the gong last year, plus Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane. Arsenal ace, Bukayo Saka and Man City midfield maestro, Kevin De Bruyne also made the cut.

Haaland confident of winning Ballon d'Or

Despite the stiff competition, Haaland has expressed confidence he can cart home the award at the end of October.

The former Borussia Dortmund superstar enjoyed a hot start to life in his debut season with City last term, winning the treble with the English giants.

"I know I can still improve a great deal. I am young. But yes, I believe I have a chance this year," Haaland said, as quoted by ESPN on social media.

The youngster played a central role in his team's Premier League side's success, thanks to his incredible goal-scoring prowess.

The Norwegian scored 52 goals last season across competitions, with the impressive tally winning him the EPL Golden Boot as well as the PFA Player of the Year award.