England would have been the dominant team (and dare I say favorites to win) if Erling Haaland would consider playing for England (born in Leeds, but born to Norwegian parents and plays for Norway, refusing to play for England). He is the best striker in the world, and thus arguably the best player. Mbappe v Haaland may be the new Messi v Ronaldo in the coming decade. But given Haaland’s crazy productivity in the Premier League this season, I have a suspicion that Haaland will continue to get better, and that it will become clear to everyone how much Haaland is better in almost every way than Mbappe. Haaland is next-worldly as his amazing dexterity despite his incredible physical strength and size which allows him to outpower defenders.
What a fantastic final. I hope Harry Kane’s legacy isn’t marred by the semi-final miss… but I know it will be. I also don’t want to see Harry Kane transferred and on the pitch without Son Heung Min.