Joao Felix is now recognised as one of the hottest talents in world football but it's not always been plain-sailing for the 19-year old sensation.
Born in Viseu in central Portugal, Felix was in the famed Porto academy for seven years but did not make the grade at the Dragons.
He was released at the age of 14 for having a 'slight frame' - easily the most common reasoning academies come up with - and the rejection will no doubt have been tough for him.
But Porto's loss was Benfica's gain as the Lisbon outfit picked him up in 2015 and after excelling for the youth team and B side, Felix, now standing at 5'11 and with 14 goals to his name this term, is one of the first names on Bruno Lage's teamsheet.
Advert
Last night at the Estadio da Luz, Felix completely ran the show - notching a stunning hat-trick and an assist in a wonderful 54 minutes.
Advert
Felix's second goal was a rocket hat was too hot for Kevin Trapp to handle and when he completed his hat-trick just before the hour mark, the youngster was reduced to tears. It meant so much to him.
Felix had never even scored a European goal up until last night but he is now the youngest player to score a hat-trick in the Europa League.
Just pay close attention to his dazzling display and it's clear to see why Juventus, Manchester United, Barcelona and Real Madrid are just some of the big boys keen on Felix, who has a €120 million release clause in his contract.
Advert
Something tells us Porto might just end up regretting their decision to release him when they had him on their books.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News, Eintracht Frankfurt, Football, Europa League, FC Porto, Luka Jović, Portugal, João Félix, Benfica
