‘I remember always watching him on YouTube’
Erling Haaland has cited Cristiano Ronaldo as one of his main inspirations growing up.
Haaland has established himself as one of the best strikers in the world after scoring a record number of goals last season, only to follow it up with 13 in 12 this campaign.
The Norwegian has worked under former players such as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Pep Guardiola however it was Ronaldo that was his biggest influence.
During his time in Europe, Ronaldo won seven league titles and five Champions Leagues during his time in Europe, scoring 701 goals in all competitions.
He’s also the record appearance maker and record goalscorer in international football with his beloved Portugal but it wasn’t any of those attributes that impressed Ronaldo the most.
“I remember always watching him on YouTube for his movements in the box: He used to make two or three moves before attacking the space he wanted to be in. It’s kind of a duel in that situation with the centre-backs,” he told TV2.
“It is important to time it perfectly. And the post must be good. If you don’t get a good cross, you won’t be able to score with your head. How Cristiano moves, and how he has managed to develop his game.
“You remember when he played in Manchester United and the first years in Real Madrid, to become more of a striker in Real Madrid. It is incredible for him that he manages. But also how he scores the goals. It is the small movements in the box, and being able to deceive the defenders.”
Given Haaland’s success at such a young age it’s clear to see that he’s taken a fair few leaves out of Ronaldo’s book.
Related links:
- Cristiano Ronaldo breaks silence on Lionel Messi’s eighth Ballon d’Or
- Erling Haaland tapes his mouth shut when he sleeps at night
- Marcus Rashford names Premier League rival as toughest opponent
