Forget Haaland, Jude Bellingham will be The Best after Messi

Jacque Talbot

• 16 Jan 2024 14:00 CST
• 2 min read

The highly anticipated Best FIFA Football Awards for 2023 bestowed upon XXX the ultimate accolade of the night.

XXXXXXXXXLionel Messi, continuing his reign as the best player in the world, retained his crown with distinction.

XXXXXXXXXXErling Haaland, following his remarkable season with Manchester City, earned the prestigious title of Best Men's Player. His extraordinary performance in the previous term saw him shatter records and establish himself as an enigmatic force in the Premier League, showcasing an unparalleled ability to find the net in various ways.

Having already secured the prestigious 2023 Golden Boy award, signifying him as the best player in Europe under 21, Jude Bellingham appears destined for a future adorned with numerous trophies. As England gears up for the upcoming Euros tournament, the narrative surrounding Bellingham's potential ascent to becoming a Ballon d'Or recipient feels like an inevitable storyline.

In contrast, Erling Haaland's focus remains singular, showcasing an exceptional goal-scoring prowess that captivated audiences throughout the past campaign. Acknowledged as a specialist, Haaland is a one-track-minded player who executes his role brilliantly on the field.

Conversely, Bellingham emerges as a versatile force in the football realm. Proficient in a double pivot for Borussia Dortmund, he refuses to be confined to a single role. His deep-lying playmaker skills seamlessly transition into a formidable force when positioned as a No.10. What sets Bellingham apart is his notable lack of weaknesses; he excels in dribbling, ball carrying, shooting, passing, tackling, and even aerial duels – a complete package with all attributes turned up to 10.

In the current season for Real Madrid, Bellingham has showcased his prowess with 17 goals and five assists in 22 matches, averaging a goal contribution in every game. He stands as the shining light for Real Madrid, a pivotal force propelling them in their title challenge.

Critically, the same cannot be unequivocally said for Haaland. While Manchester City may appear weaker without him leading their attack, it is evident that he is not as fundamentally indispensable to the team. Furthermore, Haaland is four years older than Bellingham, a fact that brings a certain sense of foreboding. Notably, Bellingham won't reach 20 years old for over six months yet, and it will be another year until he is legally able to buy alcohol in America. The stark age contrast underscores the remarkable potential and future longevity of Bellingham's career on the global football stage.