The footballing world is always looking for its next superstar, especially with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi both approaching the twilight years of their careers. Here are eight stars who were once thought of as the "the next Ronaldo".
Click through the gallery above to see eight players who were dubbed the "the next Ronaldo".
In 2010, Manchester United supporters were excited by the signing of a then-unknown Bebe, who many believed was going to make waves at United, the club Ronaldo spent six successful years at from 2003 until 2009.
At the Red Devils, the Portuguese became one of the best players in the world, but took his career to new heights when he signed for Real Madrid in the 2009/10 season.
Unfortunately, Bebe was unable to fulfil the void left by Ronaldo, playing just seven times for the Red Devils' first-team.
Gabriel Obertan suffered a similar fate to Bebe at Old Trafford, perhaps even worse as he was signed in the same transfer window Ronaldo left.
The Frenchman arrived with a huge reputation and with massive expectation, but 10 years later and he is playing for Erzurumspor in Turkey.
Winger Wilfried Zaha was also once though of as a player who could fill the five-time Ballon d'Or winner's shoes. Tricky, quick and daring, Zaha had all the tools to become a hit at United, but failed to make the grade.
Upon Ronaldo's exit from Real Madrid last year, many believed Marco Asensio would step up in his absence, but things have not been that way just yet for the Spaniard.
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He still has plenty of time to make a name for himself at the Santiago Bernabeu, but perhaps he might never be a 50-goals-a-season type of player. A few other big names feature in the gallery – click through the gallery to see all the names!
Which other stars would you add to this list? Have your say in the comments section below.
