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Former Super Eagles captain, Mikel Obi, has provided reasons why Lionel Messi deserved to win the 2023 FIFA Best Men\u2019s Player of the Year, over Erling Haaland.<\/p>\n
Messi secured his eighth FIFA Best Award at the ceremony in London on Monday, January 15, 2024, sparking discussions regarding Haaland\u2019s notable achievements with Manchester City in the period under review.<\/p>\n
Mikel emphasized Messi\u2019s worthiness of the accolade, pointing out that winning the Copa America in the same year as the award holds significant weight.<\/p>\n
He addressed the argument in favor of Haaland, acknowledging the Norwegian\u2019s impact but highlighting Manchester City\u2019s ability to create chances and win games even without Haaland on the field.<\/p>\n
The former Chelsea midfielder acknowledged the quality of Manchester City as a team that consistently creates opportunities and secures victories, contributing to Messi\u2019s overall impact.<\/p>\n
Mikel Obi told SKYSPORTS \u201cI understand that. He {Haaland} plays for Manchester City. Manchester City is the team that creates chances. They win games.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe (Haaland) has not played for nine games, ten games, but what are they doing? They lost one in nine or ten games.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey create chances, score goals, and know how to win games without Haaland.\u201d<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Messi\u2019s win marks a historic moment as the first Major League Soccer player to receive the FIFA Best Men\u2019s Player Award.<\/p>\n