Table of Contents
- Inter Milan Legend's Predictions
- Messi and Ronaldo's Legacy
- Future Icons of Football
- Sneijder's Insights
Inter Milan icon Wesley Sneijder has identified three players he believes will take over as football's global superstars once Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo retire.
Messi and Ronaldo are approaching the end of their remarkable careers, having dominated the sport for over 15 years and collectively securing more than 15 Ballon d'Or awards. Both athletes are anticipated to retire following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nevertheless, Sneijder has highlighted Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Lamine Yamal as the natural successors to their legacy.
In an interview with Adventure Gamers, Sneijder remarked, “When Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo hang up their boots, discussions will shift more towards Mbappé, Vinícius, and Lamine Yamal, similar to how we currently discuss Ronaldo and Messi.”
“It's all about generational change. When Diego Maradona retired, new players emerged. A century from now, people may not discuss Mbappé, Vinícius, or Yamal in the same light.”
“There will be a new generation to take their place, but when they retire, we will begin to talk about Mbappé, Yamal, and Vinícius in the same manner we discuss Ronaldo and Messi.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the players that Wesley Sneijder believes will succeed Messi and Ronaldo?
Wesley Sneijder believes that Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Lamine Yamal will succeed Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as football's global icons.
When are Messi and Ronaldo expected to retire?
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are expected to retire after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
What did Sneijder say about generational change in football?
Sneijder mentioned that football goes through generational changes, and when current stars retire, new players will emerge to take their place, similar to what happened after Diego Maradona's retirement.
