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

Cristiano Ronaldo has predicted that Kylian Mbappe will be one of the four stars who will dominate football. Football has long been dominated by Ronaldo and Messi, with the two legends winning 13 of the last 15 Ballons d'Or – but their era is coming to an end.

Although both icons currently play outside of Europe's elite leagues, they continue to reach extraordinary milestones. Ronaldo recently celebrated his 900th career goal. Meanwhile, reigning Ballon d'Or winner Messi continues to bask in the glory of his Copa America triumph with Argentina.

Despite their continued success, there is no ignoring the reality that a new generation is waiting in the wings. As he approaches 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.

On Mbappe's move to his former club Real Madrid, Ronaldo believes the French captain will handle the pressure. “In my opinion, he can be the next Ballon d'Or” [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 has a lot of potential. We'll see if they have a clear and good head and if they can handle the pressure – because Real Madrid is not PSG, I can tell you that. The environment is different, but I think it's a good club.” [Mbappe’s] I'll do it very well.”

Having finally put an end to his lengthy transfer saga, Mbappe has scored three goals in his first five games for the Spanish club. He also has the opportunity to form a formidable partnership with new teammate Bellingham, which could extend Real Madrid's run of success.

Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal showed the full extent of his talents by winning the Euros with Spain this summer. In England, Erling Haaland has shone for Manchester City, scoring seven goals in just three league games.

Although there will be plenty of contenders vying for the top spot when Messi and Ronaldo finally retire, it seems the Portuguese legend believes Mbappe can progress and excel at Madrid.

“I think he's going to do well [at Real Madrid] “It's because of the structure of the club, because it's good, 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 will be a big problem for him because his challenge is to show everyone what he's capable of and I think he'll do it well.”