Sweden-based South African star Nhlakanipho "Nana" Ntuli has revealed the two players he is backing to replace the Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi rivalry.
The former Orlando Pirates academy star has spent the vast majority of his career in Europe, representing teams in the Netherlands, Poland, and Slovakia.
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Having been a highly-rated prospect during his teen years, the midfielder, who now plays for Dalkurd in Sweden, has had the opportunity to play at some of Europe's most prestigious venues, including Old Trafford, where he captained a Pirates youth side during the Manchester United Premier Cup in 2011.
With the 27-year-old playmaker also being among a long list of South African youngsters who have been on the books of Ajax Amsterdam and only the second player from Mzansi to represent FC Twente after Bernard Parker, Ntuli is an avid follower of the European game, and he recently shared his thoughts on some of football's biggest talking points.
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Speaking to KickOff, the Durban-born footballer admitted his belief that Paris Saint-German forward Kylian Mbappe and Manchester City's goalscoring sensation Erling Haaland will succeed the iconic Ronaldo-Messi rivalry.
Who do you think is the best player in the world right now?
[Kylian] Mbappe… he is an amazing talent with speed and power, but most importantly, his mentality is key to his game. I believe he will stay on top for a very long time.
Can a Mbappe-Haaland rivalry be the new Ronald-Messi debate?
Yes, of course that is possible, they are top footballers who give everything for their careers so there will be a new face of the game.
Who are you backing to win the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League this season?
I am counting on Manchester City in both competitions.
Who deserves to win the 2023 Ballon d'Or award?
It's too early to say because there are lot of things that have to come on the table before the decision is made, but at the moment, I will say Mbappe deserve his first Ballon d'Or now, it's about time. His performances at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and his performances week in and week out show he deserves it.
Did you think it was right for Ronaldo to leave Europe?
I really don't see anything wrong with it. He is 38 and has done and achieved everything in European football. For me, it was a smart move for him.
Which top manager would you have loved to play under?
Roberto De Zerbi [of Brighton Hove Albion.
Which overseas team do you support?
Manchester City.
Who is your favourite overseas player of all time?
Xavi Hernandez.
Do you remember the first overseas game you watched?
Oh, I can't really remember that long ago, but I think it was a UEFA Champions League match I watched with my father.
Who's your GOAT between Messi and Ronaldo?
Lionel Messi.
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