Erling Haaland is once again in sensational form for Manchester City, prompting debate over his place among football's all-time greatest strikers. The Norwegian has been arguably the best centre-forward in world football in recent seasons, and if he maintains his current trajectory, he could go down as one of the finest ever.
Mirror Football writers have weighed in on who they consider the best striker of all time, with Gerd Muller and R9 receiving strong endorsements. Muller, the German legend, scored 565 goals for Bayern Munich and 68 in 62 games for his country, winning the 1974 World Cup. He redefined the poacher role and won the 1970 Ballon d'Or.
However, the consensus among the writers is that Ronaldo Nazário, known as R9, is the greatest. The Brazilian combined pace, power, and dribbling ability, playing for Barcelona, Real Madrid, and both Milan clubs. Despite career-threatening knee injuries, he returned to win the 2002 World Cup as top scorer and delivered iconic performances, including a hat-trick at Old Trafford that earned a standing ovation from Manchester United fans.
Haaland is rightly in the conversation and, given he is still in his mid-20s, has huge scope for achievement. But for now, Ronaldo remains the benchmark, with his blend of resilience and brilliance setting him apart.
