Ilkay Gundogan claims that “Lionel Messi & Cristiano Ronaldo are the only comparison” for Manchester City striker Erling Haaland.

As City swept their way to a historic Treble in 2022–2023, the Norwegian striker was a revelation for the team. In 52 goals throughout all competitions, Haaland helped Pep Guardiola’s team win the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.

Gundogan says there are “no limits” to what the 22-year-old frontman can achieve as he boasts the same relentless drive as two all-time greats with 12 Ballons d’Or between them.

Gundogan has told The Players’ Tribune of Haaland: “Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect when he came here. You see the goals and all the attention that he was getting at Dortmund, and you wonder if he’s going to fit with the group.

“But when I got to know him, I was so surprised how someone could be that talented and still have the will to be even better every single day. He’s never satisfied. I feel like there are no limits for him. Messi and Ronaldo are the only comparison for the level he could reach.”

Haaland will be back for more with City in 2023-24, but Gundogan is preparing to take on a new challenge as he bids farewell to the Etihad Stadium after seven memorable years and makes his way to La Liga giants Barcelona as a free agent.