Cristiano Ronaldo's 2015 Predictions: Where Are His Five Chosen Talents Now?

Cristiano Ronaldo once spotlighted five promising young footballers in 2015, believing they were destined to dominate the sport. At the time, Ronaldo was still dazzling the world with Real Madrid, though many thought his peak was nearing. A decade later, he's still scoring goals with Al Nassr and aiming for the 2026 World Cup. But what about the five players he predicted would follow in his footsteps?

1. Martin Odegaard

A teenage sensation when he joined Real Madrid from Stromsgodset, Martin Odegaard's raw talent caught Ronaldo's eye early on. Although he struggled to break into Madrid's first team, his perseverance paid off.

Now captaining Arsenal, Odegaard has led the Gunners through multiple Premier League title races. Under Mikel Arteta, he's matured into one of Europe's top midfielders, embodying leadership and creativity.

2. Eden Hazard

Back in 2015, Eden Hazard was at the peak of his powers, having just led Chelsea to a Premier League title. Ronaldo predicted a golden future, and a blockbuster move to Real Madrid soon followed.

However, injuries and fitness issues plagued his time in Spain. Failing to live up to the £100 million price tag, Hazard retired from professional football at 32. Today, he’s involved in cycling and various non-football sports endeavors.

3. Paul Pogba

Paul Pogba was a dynamic force at Juventus and returned to Manchester United with sky-high expectations. He helped France win the 2018 World Cup and was once a key midfield figure globally.

But inconsistency and injuries derailed his progress. A doping scandal during his second Juventus spell has left his future uncertain. Pogba now faces the challenge of reviving a career that once promised greatness.

4. Memphis Depay

Hailed as Ronaldo's successor at Manchester United, Memphis Depay even inherited the iconic No.7 shirt. Unfortunately, the Dutchman's Premier League journey was underwhelming, leading to a move to Lyon.

Depay regained form in France and later joined Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. Now at Corinthians in Brazil, he has scored 13 goals and delivered 14 assists in 39 games, proving he still possesses elite ability.

5. Neymar

From Barcelona’s dazzling MSN trio to a world-record transfer to PSG, Neymar seemed destined to claim football’s throne. While he won numerous domestic titles, the Champions League eluded him in Paris.

Off-field controversies and frequent injuries impacted his legacy. Now back at Santos, Neymar has shown glimpses of resurgence with three goals and three assists in nine matches, hinting at a possible comeback.

A Mixed Legacy

Cristiano Ronaldo's predictions were bold, and while not all panned out, several have achieved impressive careers. Some met expectations, others fell short, and a few are still chasing the heights he once saw in them.

Ronaldo's vision remains a testament to his deep understanding of the game and the talent it takes to thrive in football's harsh spotlight.

Editorial Team