Legendary Nigerian midfielder, Mikel Obi, has urged Manchester City's prolific striker, Erling Haaland, to demonstrate his quality during crucial matches for his club.

According to Obi, Haaland's proficiency as a striker is among the best in the world, given his remarkable goal-scoring record since emerging in Europe.

The former Chelsea midfielder pointed out that since Haaland joined City, he has struggled to score in most of the big games, particularly in the Champions League, which raises concerns about his footballing prowess.

Obi encouraged Haaland to be as impactful in significant matches as former Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi was, which earned Messi recognition as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

"Right now, he hasn't [shown up in big games]. We can agree on that. I want to see him, on Sunday, show up in the big games, which is what Messi did," he said, as shared by Vince on X.

The retired Nigerian footballer made this comment following Manchester City's goalless draw against Inter Milan on the first day of the 2024/2025 UEFA Champions League.

Despite an impressive start to the English Premier League, scoring nine goals in four matches, Haaland failed to score in the UCL.

Some pundits in the Premier League have criticized him for not having an all-around game, being only good at finishing.

However, Haaland has stated that he is not perturbed by such criticisms.

View the tweet below:

🗣️ John Obi Mikel on Haaland: "Right now, he hasn't [showed up in big games]. We can agree on that.

I want to see him, on Sunday, show up in the big games, which is what Messi did." pic.twitter.com/bnQg9ehfDS

— Vince™ (@Blue_Footy) September 19, 2024