Balotelli says four footballers ‘can write the history of football’ and follow in Ronaldo and Messi’s footsteps

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 twilights of their trophy-laden careers.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’s historic careers are winding downREXGETTYMario Balotelli reckons there are FOUR players capable of taking up their mantle[/caption]

Balotelli reckons Erling Haaland could become an all-time great

Ronaldo is winding down in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassar, while Messi is plying his trade with French champion Paris Saint-German.

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.

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 Leão. The four can write the history of football.”

Manchester City and PSG hitmen Haaland and Mbappe have already proven themselves to be goalscoring machines.

GETTYKylian Mbappe has already established himself as a global superstar[/caption]

Victor Osimhen is also on Mario Balotelli’s list of greatsREXAC Milan’s Rafael Leao is also a star in the making, according to BalotelliREX

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 Gli Azzurri, 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 Rossoneiri.