In this Feb 1, 2020 photo, Dortmund's Norwegian forward Erling Braut Haaland celebrates after scoring during the German first division Bundesliga football match Borussia Dortmund vs FC Union Berlin in Dortmund. (INA FASSBENDER / AFP)

WARSAW - Bayern Munich legend Lothar Matthaus praised Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland in an interview with Polish newspaper Przeglad Sportowy on Tuesday, saying "the Norwegian can be one of the best strikers in the world in the future."

One day he can become as good as the Pole but there is still a long way to go for him. Let's remember that Lewandowski also increased his skills at Dortmund.

Lothar Matthaus, ex-Bayern Munich FC captain

The 19-year-old had a near perfect start to life in the Bundesliga by scoring 16 goals in his first 14 games following his January switch from Red Bull Salzburg. Former Munich captain Matthaus has been impressed with Haaland's form, but he appealed for people not to put too much pressure on the Norwegian's shoulders.

"He is a candidate for one of the best strikers in the world, but we all should stay calm. Haaland is at the beginning stage of his career, we'll see how it goes in the coming years. For now he is in the right place at the right time," Matthaus was quoted as saying by Przeglad Sportowy.

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The German compared Haaland to Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski. "One day he can become as good as the Pole but there is still a long way to go for him. Let's remember that Lewandowski also increased his skills at Dortmund," added Matthaus.

There are rumors that Borussia may be obliged to sell Haaland at the end of the season due to a 75 million euro release clause in his contract. However, Matthaus urged the young striker to stay in Germany.

"He should play in the Bundesliga in the next season, maybe two (more seasons), and then think about taking the next step in his career and looking for a bigger club. Borussia is the second best team in Germany, Dortmund has a great atmosphere at matches. At this point, Haaland needs nothing more," claimed the former Bayern player.