West Ham forward Michail Antonio has labelled Manchester City’s Erling Haaland as “world-class” along with a number of other Premier League forwards.
When speaking on the Footballer’s Football podcast, Antonio was asked to define a world-class player and he replied:
“For me, world-class is doing it at the best and being one of the best in the best situation. So for me world-class, [Bukayo] Saka is world-class, for me, [Gabriel] Jesus is world-class, for me, Haaland is world-class, for me, Mo Salah is world-class.”
“For me, any people in that top four fighting for the top of the Premier League, they are world-class players because they’re in the best league and doing the best.”
Some may question Antonio’s definition of “world-class”
While nobody will question Liverpool winger Mo Salah’s inclusion in the category, some will raise an eyebrow at the mention of Gabriel Jesus. While you won’t find many City fans questioning the fact that the Brazilian is a good player; his poor finishing ability means it’s hard to categorise him as “world-class.”
You may have more people arguing that his Arsenal teammate Bukayo Saka is getting close to that level, although it is still felt he needs to prove himself over a longer period.
There can be no dispute about Haaland’s place among the elite
When it comes to City’s No.9, you won’t get anyone arguing whether he is up there with the very best in the world, The Norwegian international’s numbers speak for themselves.
In his 107 league appearances for Borussia Dortmund and City, he has scored a remarkable 102 goals. Averaging nearly a goal a game in two of the best divisions in Europe makes him a unique talent.
