Erling Haaland asked about Kylian Mbappe rivalry and whether it will be the same as Ronaldo vs Messi

Erling Haaland has discussed his so-called 'rivalry' with Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe in a fascinating new interview.

The Norwegian striker, 22, has enjoyed a blistering start to life in the Premier League following his highly-anticipated £51.5 million summer move to Manchester City.

He is currently on course to become the third player to win the Golden Boot in his debut top-flight season after scoring 18 goals in 13 Premier League games

And as a result of his fine form, many are touting Haaland to ignite a Messi vs Ronaldo type-rivalry with another top forward – Kylian Mbappe.

Haaland, who will have no doubt enjoyed a welcome rest throughout this winter's World Cup campaign, was recently asked about the subject in an interview with Viaplay.

In the chat with former Liverpool midfielder Jan Molby, he spoke about numerous subjects, including his relationship with City manager Pep Guardiola and the records Haaland is aiming for.

But it was Haaland's reaction to a question about Kylian Mbappe that piqued our interest.

"It's impossible to say," the City forward said. "I don't like to compare myself with others. I think you need to be your own player when it comes to that so I don't like to compare or anything with that.

"I think the media has been doing that with Ronaldo and Messi for the last 10 years and I think they've been pushing each other as well. I think it's been a positive thing.

"Barcelona and Madrid against each other. It's been the perfect rivalry. But I don't think about this, honestly."

Last year, Kylian Mbappe suggested Haaland isn't quite on his level yet, saying he needs to show more longevity before being labelled football's next big star.

“It is his second year, we are getting to know him. It is the beginning for him. I'm happy for him, for what he's doing,” Mbappe told Esquire.

“I have played up front, I have played on the left and on the right,” he continued. “In all humility, I don't think everyone is capable of changing positions like this every year and maintaining a great performance at the highest level.

“That did not fall from the sky. If I talk about the baggage that they gave me in adolescence, it's all there.

"I have managed to work on my weak points, but above all to perfect my strengths, because they have always told me that it is through your strengths that you are going to win."

Image credit: Alamy

Mbappe did concede that he's nowhere near the level of Messi and Ronaldo yet.

In fact, he spoke of the two players with the utmost respect, branding them 'incomparable.'

"Everybody knows. If you tell yourself that you will do better than them, it goes beyond ego or determination: it is lack of awareness," he stressed.

"Those players are incomparable. They have broken all the laws of statistics. They have had ten, fifteen extraordinary years.

"You always compare yourself to the best in your sport, just as the baker compares himself to the best bakers around him. Who makes the best croissant, the best pain au chocolat?

"I watch the games of other great players to see what they do. I know how to do this, but can the other do it too? I think other players are watching me too. I think that pushes footballers to elevate their game."

Do you think Mbappe vs Haaland can become the next Messi vs Ronaldo?

Let us know in the comments.