Erling Haaland cited Cristiano Ronaldo as his main inspiration, stating that he used to ‘always watch’ the Portuguese superstar during his formative years as a footballer.

The Norwegian has continued his goal-scoring exploits with Manchester City this season, scoring 17 goals in 18 games across all competitions for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Like many young football fans, Haaland, 23, grew up during the reign of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, and he credits the Al-Nassr forward with teaching him the most.

Following in the footsteps of Ronaldo, Haaland has honed his finishing abilities, with the City star capable with both feet and a danger in the box with headers.

Haaland’s ratio for scoring headed goals has improved to one in every four attempts, and he explained that watching videos of Ronaldo online helped him improve.

Erling Haaland has revealed that as a child, he used to ‘always watch’ Cristiano Ronaldo.

Haaland stated that he used to watch online videos of Ronaldo in order to improve his own skills.

‘I remember always watching his movements in the box on YouTube: He used to make two or three moves before attacking the space he wanted to be in,’ Haaland told TV2.

‘It’s almost like a duel with the centre-backs in that situation. It is critical to time it perfectly. And the post must be of high quality. You won’t be able to score with your head if you don’t get a good cross.’ 

‘How Cristiano moves and how he has developed his game. You may recall him playing for Manchester United and Real Madrid in his early years, when he was a striker. 

Haaland described how he used to watch Ronaldo to help him improve his boxing movement.

Haaland praised Ronaldo for his exceptional ability to create chances in the box.

‘It’s amazing for him that he manages. But it’s also about how he scores goals. It’s the small movements in the box and the ability to fool the defenders,’ he added.

After being ruled out of his country’s upcoming European Championship qualifier, the Norwegian will have more time on his hands to watch his childhood hero’s best career moments.

After twisting his ankle in a recent friendly win over the Faroe Islands, Haaland has left Manchester City worried about his fitness and will miss Sunday’s match against Norway.

City will be hoping he has recovered in time for Saturday’s Premier League match against Liverpool at the Etihad.