Salah, Mbappe Or Sterling? Xavi Reveals Who Will Take Over From Ronaldo And Messi

Former Barcelona star Xavi Hernandez has praised Lionel Messi and Cristiano for the dominance they have shown over the last decade but believes that will soon come to an end.

Messi and Ronaldo have dominated the football scenes over the last ten years, with the two competing for the biggest individual titles, and also leading their teams to success in competitions.

They have also broken numerous records in one of the most intense rivalries in the history of sports. Both are now in their thirties now, but they have not shown any signs of slowing down.

However, Xavi believes it’s a matter of time before their reign comes to an end, and has identified the player likely to take over from them. The former Spain international believes Manchester City star Raheem Sterling looks more likely to be the next star to dominate the game, although he also mentioned Liverpool’s Mo Salah and PSG’s Kylian Mbappe.

“Messi and Ronaldo have dominated the best-player-in-the-world awards for so many years now, it’s hard to remember a time before them, Xavi told the Mirror

“Messi is the best ever for me – and even though they’re both still playing at a very high level – there will come the day not so long away when somebody else must step into those shoes.

“You look at young players who can be crowned the future best in the world and you still think of Neymar, Mbappe, Salah, and of course Sterling. I look at the moment – and Sterling is winning that race.”  He’s always been a good player, a dangerous player, but under Pep he become one of the best in the world, Xavi added.