In a surprising move, Manchester City’s prolific striker Erling Haaland has chosen to skip the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, opting instead to support his friend Erik Botheim and Malmö FF in their title-deciding match against IFK Gothenburg.
Haaland, a 2024 Ballon d’Or nominee, was spotted in Malmö on Monday evening, ahead of the crucial Allsvenskan clash.
A victory for Malmö would secure their second consecutive league title and fourth in five years.
The Norwegian striker’s allegiance lies with his friend Botheim, with whom he shares a strong bond forged during their time playing for Norway’s junior national team.
Their friendship extends beyond the pitch, as evidenced by their joint appearance in a popular rap video alongside Erik Sandberg, which has garnered over 12 million views on YouTube.
Haaland’s decision to prioritize friendship over the glamorous Ballon d’Or ceremony raises eyebrows, especially after finishing as runner-up to Lionel Messi in 2023.
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However, it highlights the importance Haaland places on personal relationships and loyalty.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior and his teammates will also be absent from the ceremony, reportedly in protest of Rodri’s potential win.
Sources close to the club express disappointment and consider it “a historic robbery” that Vinícius, a leading contender after Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League double, may not receive the award.
As the football world converges on Paris for the Ballon d’Or, Haaland’s absence serves as a poignant reminder that, beyond individual accolades, the beautiful game is built on friendships, camaraderie, and shared passions.
