Teammate reveals Cristiano Ronaldo's prophecy came true at Manchester United

Defender Diogo Dalot recently shared a special story about his senior teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, unveiling the superstar’s prediction during the time they both played for Manchester United.

Notably, that prediction has now become a reality following a £74 million transfer deal made by the Old Trafford club during the summer transfer window.

At 41 years old, Ronaldo is still playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia and is aiming for what could be his final World Cup with the Portuguese national team. Meanwhile, Dalot, now 26, is gradually establishing himself as a key player at Manchester United after years of development.

Speaking on Rio Ferdinand’s show “Rio Meets,” Dalot revealed that Ronaldo told him one day he would become a mentor to a younger player, just as CR7 had been for him. “Cristiano once told me: What I’m doing with you now, one day you will do the same for another player. That’s why I do this,” Dalot disclosed.

And that moment came when Manchester United signed young striker Benjamin Sesko for a fee of £74 million in the summer. Dalot admitted he sees himself in Sesko, especially in his ambition and thorough preparation both physically and mentally.

“I see in him the image of myself at 20 or 21 years old. He does everything possible off the pitch to be ready. But I always remind him that when you score and are praised as the best striker, the important thing is to stay humble and focused the next day,” Dalot shared.

Joining Manchester United in 2018 after leaving Porto, Dalot spent a season on loan at AC Milan before returning to claim a starting spot. To date, he has made 236 appearances across all competitions and is approaching the 250-game milestone for the Red Devils.

Dalot’s growth is not only in his skills but also in his role within the locker room. From a young player mentored by Ronaldo, he has now become a pillar for the next generation. This story shows the greatest legacy Ronaldo left behind is not just goals or trophiesbut the spirit and winning culture passed on to those who follow.

With the blend of Dalot’s experience and Sesko’s potential, Manchester United is hopeful for a more stable future where lessons from the past become the foundation for new successes.