Haaland vs Gyokeres: Football legend weighs in on the debate

Real Madrid legend has revealed who he thinks is a better forward in Haaland and Gyokeres ahead of the Sporting CP vs Man City UCL fixture.

As fans eagerly anticipate the Champions League fixture, Sporting CP vs Man City, questions on who is a better forward in Erling Haaland and Gyokeres have been raised and also answered ahead of the tie.

A former Real Madrid star has stirred debate by suggesting that Viktor Gyokeres is a "better version of Erling Haaland" as Sporting CP prepares to face Manchester City. Rafael van der Vaart, ex-Netherlands international, boldly stated that Gyokeres offers more than Haaland, leading to an intriguing comparison between the two forwards given Haaland’s remarkable track record and Gyokeres’ rapidly rising profile.

The Sporting CP standout has shown stellar form in the 2024/2025 season, netting 16 goals in just 10 matches across all competitions. His performances have attracted the attention of Premier League giants such as Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United. United’s current managerial replacement for Erik ten Hag, Ruben Amorim—who coached Gyokeres at Sporting—reportedly has a connection with the striker, though Gyokeres is unlikely to follow him to Old Trafford.

In an interview with Ziggo Sport, Van der Vaart, who also played for Tottenham, remarked, “It may sound a bit crazy, but I think Gyokeres is a bit of a better version of Haaland. Haaland is of course incredible, but Gyökeres has a bit more, or something.”

Similarly, AC Milan and Ajax legend Marco van Basten added, “He’s a real footballer, I think. A real footballing striker. Strong, scores easily, and is calm in front of goal. He’s also able to pass the keeper. I can really enjoy watching him play.”

Despite United’s interest, Gyokeres reportedly plans to remain with Sporting CP for now. The Swedish forward, who has tallied 20 goals in 16 appearances this season, appears focused on continuing his success in Lisbon rather than moving to Manchester, citing United’s current lack of stability and title prospects. Amorim’s appointment also signals that United may seek alternative options for reinforcing their attack. Meanwhile, clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea, who have shown prior interest in Gyokeres, could still explore the possibility of signing him.

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