Michu: Erling Haaland can fight for the Ballon d’Or every year

Erling Haaland’s childhood idol Michu believes that the young star is on his way to becoming one of the best strikers in Europe.

Former Swansea striker Michu, who was an inspiration for Erling Haaland growing up, has heaped big praise on the Borussia Dortmund striker. The Spaniard believes that the 20 year old has all the tools to be successful, and he will end up defining the next decade in the sport. Michu also hailed Haaland’s incredible breakthrough, and said that barring maybe Kylian Mbappe, he hasn’t seen someone make such an impact so quickly.

"“He has it all: youth, goalscoring, he’s very quick despite his height, he’s good with both feet,” Michu told Radio Marca. “I think he’s going to be one of the best strikers in Europe. I’ve never seen a breakthrough like it in European football – maybe Mbappe.”“If he continues with that progression, he’ll fight for the Golden Boot and Ballon d’Or every season. He’s a very humble boy and has everything in front of him. He’s got a big personality despite his age. He’s very well advised. He’s got all the ingredients to be the best player in the world.”"

Michu also revealed that he often talks to Haaland on social media, and gives him advice on how to improve his game even more.

"“We talk a lot on social media. I give him lots of advice and support from my experience as a player. He’s still a kid, he has plenty to improve on and it looks like he’s got a massive future. For me, it’s an honour because I think he’s a player that’s going to define a decade in this sport.”"

Haaland has said on numerous occasions that Michu is a player who he really admired as a kid. He also paid tribute to the 34 year old by copying his ear-cup celebration after scoring for Norway in their 5-1 win over Northern Ireland on Monday. And Michu said that it was an honour for him that Haaland used his celebration.

Michu also said that Haaland’s decision to join Borussia Dortmund from RB Salzburg in January was a very clever one, but added that he hopes to see him in the Spanish La Liga one day.

"“He’s made a very clever move in signing for Borussia. He’ll keep growing there before making the step up to the elite. He’ll keep progressing at Dortmund and become very good.”"

After scoring three goals in two games for Norway, Haaland will now return to Dortmund as they prepare for the start of the new season. The Black and Yellows face MSV Duisburg in the first round of the DFB Pokal on September 14, before their Bundesliga opener against Borussia Mönchengladbach five days later.