Just before the infamous goal scorer from Manchester City was announced as the best men’s player at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards on Friday, Cristiano Ronaldo seemed to gesture in his direction.
Lionel Messi defeated Haaland on Monday to win the FIFA Best Men’s Player award, having previously won the Ballon d’Or.
The Norwegian had an incredible season in his first year of English football, helping Pep Guardiola’s team win the legendary Treble with 52 goals for City.
Although Ronaldo has won an incredible number of individual championships during his illustrious career, he seemed to acknowledge that Haaland ought to take home the award on Friday when he pointed toward the City player.
The top men’s trophy went to Haaland in the 14th edition of the annual awards, which honor the best players, teams, and up-and-coming talents from across the globe.
Before Manchester City’s infamous goal scorer was announced as the best men’s player at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards on Friday, Cristiano Ronaldo seemed to gesture in his way.
The whole 25-man Man City roster, who were practicing in the UAE’s warm weather as English and European champions, attended the ceremony.
Ronaldo was on the 30-man shortlist of nominees for the men’s award, but Haaland defeated him to win, and Messi was not selected either.
When the 39-year-old recognized Haaland and was observed gesturing in the direction of his younger rival, it seemed as though his intense competitive drive was broken.
Haaland was relieved to finally receive an individual award acknowledging his accomplishments rather than placing second. 
But even with the loss to Haaland, Ronaldo managed to secure three awards during an outstanding 2023 campaign with Portugal and Al Nassr.
Ronaldo won the Globe Soccer Maradona Award for most goals scored in a calendar year, marking his accomplishment of scoring 54 goals for club country last season, more than any other player.
In addition, he received the accolades of being the best player in the Middle East and the year’s fan favorite.