Mikel Obi gives reason why Messi deserved 2023 FIFA Best player award | SportsRation

Former Super Eagles captain, Mikel Obi, has provided reasons why Lionel Messi deserved to win the 2023 FIFA Best Men’s Player of the Year, over Erling Haaland.

Messi secured his eighth FIFA Best Award at the ceremony in London on Monday, January 15, 2024, sparking discussions regarding Haaland’s notable achievements with Manchester City in the period under review.

Mikel emphasized Messi’s worthiness of the accolade, pointing out that winning the Copa America in the same year as the award holds significant weight.

He addressed the argument in favor of Haaland, acknowledging the Norwegian’s impact but highlighting Manchester City’s ability to create chances and win games even without Haaland on the field.

The former Chelsea midfielder acknowledged the quality of Manchester City as a team that consistently creates opportunities and secures victories, contributing to Messi’s overall impact.

Mikel Obi told SKYSPORTS “I understand that. He {Haaland} plays for Manchester City. Manchester City is the team that creates chances. They win games.

“He (Haaland) has not played for nine games, ten games, but what are they doing? They lost one in nine or ten games.

“They create chances, score goals, and know how to win games without Haaland.”

Meanwhile, Messi’s win marks a historic moment as the first Major League Soccer player to receive the FIFA Best Men’s Player Award.

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