Cristiano Ronaldo predicts four players to take over his and Lionel Messi's dominance

Cristiano Ronaldo has predicted Kylian Mbappe to be one of four stars set to rule the beautiful game. Football has long been dominated by Ronaldo and Messi, with the two legends claiming 13 of the last 15 Ballons d’Or – but their era is coming to an end.

Although both icons are currently plying their trade outside Europe’s elite leagues, they continue to hit extraordinary milestones. Ronaldo recently celebrated scoring his landmark 900th career goal. Meanwhile, Messi, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, continues to bask in the glory of his Copa America triumph with Argentina.

Yet, despite their ongoing success, the reality that a fresh generation is waiting in the wings cannot be ignored. Fastly approaching his 40th birthday, Ronaldo is aware that the torch will soon be passed to others and believes Mbappe is one of the leading contenders to take his place.

Weighing in on Mbappe’s move to his former club Real Madrid, Ronaldo believes the France captain will handle the pressure. “In my opinion, he can be the next Golden Ball [winner] for the next few years,” Ronaldo said on Rio Ferdinand Presents. “Him, probably [Erling] Haaland, [Jude] Bellingham, Lamine [Yamal].

“I think this new generation, they have a lot of potential. Let’s see if their head is clear and good and if they can deal with the pressure – because Real Madrid is not PSG, I can tell you. There is a different environment, but I believe that [Mbappe’s] going to do it very well.”

After finally putting a stop to his never-ending transfer saga, Mbappe has netted three goals in his first five matches for the Spanish club. He also has the opportunity to form a formidable partnership with new teammate Bellingham, which could extend Real Madrid’s wave of success.

Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal demonstrated his skills as he clinched the Euros with Spain this summer. In England, Erling Haaland has been on fire for Manchester City, scoring seven goals in just three league matches.

While there will be numerous contenders vying for the top spot when Messi and Ronaldo eventually retire, it appears that the Portuguese legend believes Mbappe can step up and excel in Madrid.

“I think he’s going to do well [at Real Madrid] because of the structure of the club because it’s nice, it’s good, it’s solid,” Ronaldo explained. “They have a great coach and a president who has been there for many, many years. I don’t think it’s going to be a big issue for him because his challenge is to show everyone what he’s capable of doing and I think he’s going to do it well.”