THE Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi era is of the beautiful game is fast coming to an end.
The multiple-time Ballon d’Or winners, 38 and 35 respectively, are well and truly in the twilight of their trophy-laden careers.
Ronaldo is winding down in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassar, while Messi is strolling into the sunset with French champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Footy fans around the globe have been wondering for several years if anyone can replicate the pair’s ridiculous goal-scoring records and trophy hauls.
While many are sceptical of seeing players emulate the pair, former Manchester City ace Mario Balotelli reckons there are FOUR current stars capable of filling the duo’s boots and becoming global icons.
The quartet in the mind of Balotelli: Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, Victor Osimhen and Rafael Leao.
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In a lengthy interview with Blick, the FC Sion and Italy hitman said: “Messi is the best.
“Haaland and Mbappe, if they keep their heads on the matter, can become as good as Ronaldo and Messi.
“But also Osimhen and Leao. The four can write the history of football.”
Manchester City and PSG hitmen Haaland and Mbappe have already proven themselves to be goalscoring machines.
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Haaland, 22, has scored a staggering goals 49 in all competitions this season.
France international and World Cup-winner Mbappe, meanwhile, has found the back of the net 34 times in 37 appearances.
Osimhen and Leao have also been revelations for Napoli and AC Milan respectively.
Nigeria international Osimhen has been imperious for the Neapolitans, firing them to the brink of their first Serie A title in 33 years with 21 goals in 25 league appearances.
Leao, meanwhile, has scored 13 goals and racked up 12 assists for the Rossonieri.
Each have been linked with big-money moves to the Premier League, with Manchester United and Chelsea both keen.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
