Former Manchester City and Inter Milan striker, Mario Balotelli, has expressed his admiration for Erling Haaland's talent but has revealed his preference for Victor Osimhen. Both Osimhen and Haaland have been in scintillating form, leading their respective teams to league titles.
Osimhen's impressive record of 25 league goals in 31 games played a pivotal role in Napoli securing their first Serie A title since 1990, under the leadership of Diego Maradona. In contrast, Haaland shattered records in his debut season in England, netting 36 goals in 35 matches, aiding Manchester City in clinching their third consecutive Premier League title.
Both strikers have also made an impact in European competitions. Haaland is currently leading the race for the Champions League golden boot with 12 goals. Osimhen, despite his team's quarterfinal exit, has contributed five goals in Europe's most prestigious club tournament.
While Balotelli acknowledges Haaland's exceptional abilities and recognizes his status as one of the most potent strikers in the world, he argues that Osimhen possesses a broader skill set. Balotelli told Calciomercato, "Haaland is extraordinary. Mino Raiola also had great intuition about him. City has numerous playmakers, and Guardiola knows how to serve him as a lethal marksman. Inter also boasts top-level strikers, which will make the competition fierce (making reference to the upcoming UCL final). The numbers may favor Haaland as the strongest striker, but for me, it's a matter of personal preference. Osimhen, for instance, is special. He can contribute in every aspect of the game, much like I did in my prime."
There is a possibility that Osimhen and Haaland could face each other in the Premier League next season, as Osimhen has been linked with a lucrative move from Napoli to England. However, any potential suitors must be prepared to pay a significant sum to secure the services of the Nigerian striker from Napoli during the upcoming summer transfer window.
With Manchester City and Inter Milan facing in the UEFA Champions League final, Balotelli is undecided on the club to support in the final as both teams are dear to his heart," Balotelli revealed.
"I have received many invitations for June 10 in Istanbul, but I am undecided and I think I will sit in the center of the stadium to avoid misunderstandings.
My heart is split in half, better not to say more. My head tells me I'd like to win both, but you can't."
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