Want to be the next Messi or Ronaldo? This is is what young stars need to do...

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FT Desk

Super agent Jorge Mendes knows a thing or two when it comes to supporting young footballers.

One of the most influential agents in the history of the game, his client list includes Cristiano Ronaldo, Lamine Yamal, Jose Mourinho, James Rodriguez, Angel Di Maria, Ruben Dias, David de Gea, Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leao, Vitinha and Joao Neves.

His most famous client is obviously Ronaldo, and along with Lionel Messi, the pair are viewed by many as the two greatest players ever.

While their talents are undisputed, the duo's longevity in the game is a testament to their fitness, conditioning and professionalism off the pitch, too.

It is that which sets them apart, according to Mendes, who warned of the failures of going down an alternative path.

"Normally, I talk to my players and say to them: 'Do you want to be like Cristiano Ronaldo or Messi off the field too, or do you want to be…?'. I won't name names, but that's the difference," Mendes said, as quoted by A Bola.

"I consider myself very privileged. Cristiano is the best player in the history of world football and, at the same time, the best example off the field. This is the model we should transmit to children."

The Portuguese businessman believes enviroment is very important for a young player's development as, first and foremost - they need to play.

"Many times we don't choose the biggest club, but the place where they would play and grow," he added.

"Going to a lower division can be better if you get minutes. Without opportunities, talent is useless. Many players get lost because they don't have the right context. They go a year or two without playing and it seems like they're not good, but the problem isn't talent, it's opportunity."

When asked what advice he would give to players regarding their off-field activities, Mendes responded:

"Manage your assets, buy a house, help your family. But don't start opening restaurants. Unless you're Cristiano, who's on a pedestal. Because he's already a professor on and off the field."

Messi and Ronaldo defined a football generation and many consider them to be the two best footballers in the history of the sport.

From league titles, to Champions League titles to even Ballon d'Or trophies, they were and still are rivals.

At the moment, Messi plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, while Ronaldo is with Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr. Both are still key figures for their respective sides, even with middle age creeping up.