Ballon d’Or 2023: Why Erling Haaland could drop to 3rd as fans name player to beat Lionel Messi

Treble-winning Manchester City striker Erling Haaland could finish third in the race for the 2023 Ballon d’Or despite his achievements at the just concluded season.

The Norwegian smashed several records and played a pivotal role as Pep Guardiola’s side won the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup last season.

But football fans are of the opinion that one of the forward’s teammates actually deserved the 2023 Ballon d’Or.

Having been part of Pep Guardiola’s historic side, Rodri won the UEFA Nations League with Spain and was named the player of the tournament.

The 26-year-old was crucial as Spain defeated Croatia via penalties to win the title at the De Kuip Stadium – the match had ended 0-0 after regulation time.

Recall that it was Rodri who scored Manchester City’s winning goal against Inter Milan in the Champions League final.

Fans believe the performance could see the Spaniard cut some of Haaland's votes for the 2023 Ballon d'Or.

Many believe Haaland is a strong contender for the prestigious prize, while Lionel Messi is hoping for an eighth award after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar.

Fans have continued to praise Rodri, which could eventually see Haaland slump into third position in the final voting.

One fan tweeted as per SPORTbible:

"Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League, Nations League. MOTM awards in multiple finals. Rodri has completed football this season."
Another asked:

"Will I get jumped if I said that Rodri should be getting those Ballon d’Or shouts over Mbappe and Vini?”

One said:

"If Jorginho made top 3 in the Ballon D’or in 2021, then Rodri should be winning the Ballon D’or for winning the treble and winning the Nations League… Uncomfortable conversations."