In a compelling endorsement at the FIFA Men’s Best Player Award ceremony held in London on Monday night, former Nigeria international and captain, John Obi Mikel, voiced his unequivocal support for Lionel Messi, asserting that the Argentine maestro is more deserving of the prestigious accolade than Erling Haaland for the remarkable football year that was 2023.
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Mikel Ob, a seasoned football veteran with an illustrious career, didn’t mince his words as he passionately argued in favor of Messi’s candidacy.
The decorated midfielder emphasized Messi’s unparalleled contributions throughout the year, highlighting the dual triumphs of winning both the World Cup and the Copa America.
“Messi did more than Haaland in the year 2023,” declared Mikel. “Now we can’t complain that he hasn’t won the World Cup before because he has not only conquered that, but he also clinched the Copa America. These achievements, in my view, elevate him as the standout candidate for the FIFA Men’s Best Player Award.”
The former Chelsea player acknowledged Haaland’s prowess as a great player and recognized his association with Manchester City. However, Mikel pointed out that Manchester City’s success extends beyond Haaland’s individual brilliance, citing the team’s ability to create chances and secure victories even in his absence.
“I understand that Haaland is a great player, and he also plays for Manchester City, a team that creates chances and wins games,” explained Mikel. “He hasn’t played in 9 or ten games, and they have only lost once in that time. Manchester City knows how to create chances and win games without Haaland.”
As the football world awaits the official announcement of the FIFA Men’s Best Player for 2023, Mikel Obi’s resounding endorsement of Lionel Messi has added fuel to the debate, intensifying the anticipation surrounding this year’s award.
