The One Crucial Factor That Sets Erling Haaland Apart from Kylian Mbappe Revealed
Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé stand among the world's most lethal goalscorers currently, yet Manchester City's goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma believes the Norwegian striker possesses a more devastating shot than his French counterpart.
Few individuals are better positioned to make such an assessment than the Italian shot-stopper, having spent three campaigns playing with Mbappé at Paris Saint-Germain before now teaming up with Haaland at Manchester City.
During a recent conversation with the Daily Mail, Donnarumma was questioned about which player delivers the more forceful strike, and the previous season's Champions League victor provided a definitive answer.
"I believe Erling [Haaland] does," Donnarumma revealed. "He uses his left foot, which makes him distinct from Kylian [Mbappé]. Both present significant challenges to face, making it complex. However, I'd prefer having Erling [Haaland] on my team."
This represents a striking declaration given that numerous observers consider Mbappé the world's premier striker when performing at peak level. Nevertheless, Haaland's remarkable ability to score goals cannot be questioned, a trait that has characterized his entire professional journey.
During this campaign, Haaland has already netted 24 times for both club and national team in all competitions. Meanwhile, Mbappé trails closely with 19 strikes.
Donnarumma on Haaland: We Connected Instantly
Donnarumma, widely recognized as among the world's elite goalkeepers, also discussed the "powerful bond" he's developed with Haaland following the striker's late summer arrival at the Etihad Stadium.
"When a bond grows this powerful, it defies explanation, and our connection was immediately positive. I'd describe it as an instant rapport," Donnarumma shared. "We maintained mutual respect even prior to meeting.
"We frequently joke about facing each other in international matches."
Haaland's Norway presently leads Group I in the UEFA 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, while Donnarumma's Italy sits three points back in the runner-up position. These two countries will clash during the forthcoming November international fixtures, in a contest that could significantly impact both teams' World Cup aspirations.
"I believe they [Norway] hold a superior position compared to us currently," Donnarumma acknowledged. "However, two matches remain to be contested. Confronting each other will prove challenging, particularly playing against him. I understand his capabilities and the opportunities he can generate. Facing him will be demanding both professionally and personally."