That is according to pundit and former team-mate Rio Ferdinand.

Ronaldo is classed as one of the best players in the world at the moment.

But the debate that continues to divide opinion is whether he is better than rival Lionel Messi.

But Ferdinand, who spent six seasons with the Portuguese icon at Manchester United, believes he will go down in history as one of the three best players ever.

“When you speak to him you think he can play for another ten years, the way he talks about his future,” the 38-year-old told Sport360.

“He’s so confident in himself because he doesn’t leave anything to chance, especially fitness. In his preparation work, he takes care of everything better than I’ve ever seen in football.

“To be so elite, stay there and be as good as he has for so long, you have to be serious with your lifestyle and fitness. He’s done that.

“Cristiano will go down when he retires as one of the best three players to have ever played the game, he’s right up there.

"Of course he has natural talent but his work ethic matches many men.”

Ronaldo hasn't enjoyed the best start to the season. Firstly, he was banned for pushing an official during a clash with Barcelona.

He then watched his Madrid team-mates struggle in his absence.

Los Blancos already trail their arch-rivals by five points, and Ronaldo only has one league goal to his name so far this season.