Cristiano Ronaldo appeared to point in the direction of Manchester City striker before the notorious goalscorer was named as the best men’s player at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards on Friday.

Haaland had been beaten by Lionel Messi to the FIFA Best men’s player accolade on Monday and previously the Ballon d’Or.

Cristiano Ronaldo appeared to point in the direction of Manchester City striker before the notorious goalscorer was named as the best men’s player at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards on Friday

Ronaldo appears to point in the direction of Haaland as the winner of the men’s award is announced

The Norwegian enjoyed a stellar campaign during his debut year in English football by scoring 52 goals for City and helping Pep Guardiola’s side achieve the fabled Treble.

Ronaldo boasts an astonishing array of individual titles throughout his glittering career, but appeared to recognise Haaland should win Friday’s trophy as cameras showed him pointing in the direction of the City star.

On social networks, fans immediately showed excitement at Ronaldo’s classy action for his junior

One person said: “This gesture from Cristiano Ronaldo pointing and saying Haaland deserves it is beautiful”

The second express: “Ronaldo pure heart”

Another one comment: “The fact that Ronaldo is Haaland’s idol is so beautiful”

The 14th edition of the annual awards recognises the best players, clubs and emerging talents from different regions of the world, with Haaland scooping the top men’s prize.

Man City’s entire 25-man squad were in attendance for the ceremony with the English and European champions taking part in warm weather training in the UAE.

Ronaldo featured among the 30-man shortlist of nominations for the men’s award but was pipped to the title by Haaland, while Messi also missed out.

The 39-year-old’s ultra competitive streak appeared to break when he recognised Haaland and was seen pointing in the direction of his younger competitor.

For Haaland it was a moment of relief as he finally claimed an individual accolade recognising his achievements instead of finishing runner-up.

However, despite missing out to Haaland, Ronaldo still succeeded in winning three accolades after a brilliant 2023 campaign with Al Nassr and Portugal.

Haaland was crowned best men’s player at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai on Friday

Ronaldo scooped a trio of awards for his achievements with Al Nassr and Portugal over the past year

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.