S.L Benfica is renowned for producing world-class talent from their esteemed academy.
João Félix is a recent graduate to make a step into the first team.
The Portuguese giants have cultivated a culture of nurturing potential and have made £230m in the last three years from selling their academy graduates, including Bernardo Silva, Ederson, Victor Lindelof, Renato Sanches, and Andre Gomes.
The Portuguese youngster made waves throughout the different age groups.
Due to his diminutive frame, he joined Benfica after being released by Porto.
In September 2016, at the age of 16, he made his Benfica reserve team debut, becoming the youngest player to debut for Benfica B.
Since making his debut, the youngster has demonstrated his ability by making 29 appearances and scoring seven goals.
For the 2018–19 season, João Félix was promoted to Benficas first team.
He made his Primera Liga debut in a 2–0 win at Boavista on 18 August 2018.
A week later, he scored his first senior goal against Sporting Lisbon, thus becoming the youngest player ever to play and score in a Lisbon derby.
The goal tied the match 1–1 at the Estádio da Luz.
After a promising start to his career, we analyse his style of play and determine whether he has the attributes to become a world-class talent and move across the shores to Europe’s biggest leagues.
João Félix Style Of Play The Advanced Playmaker
João Félix plays as an attacking midfielder or left-winger.
His versatility allows him to influence games higher up the field.
Felix’s creativity and passing separate him from the pack.
His two most vital attributes go hand in hand.
It is rare to see a 19-year-old with such incredible vision.
An ability to pick a pass and scan an entire field in a matter of seconds is invaluable.
Developing this sort of ability is usually seen in experienced veterans or innately talented youngsters, and the Portuguese starlet falls into the latter category.
Félix is the driving force behind Benfica B’s attack, providing creativity and a platform for his team to make unorthodox movements.
His diverse range of passing allows him to make several difficult passing attempts.
With his back to goal, Félix is being closed down by the central midfielder and a centre-back to contend with behind him.
This one pass dissects Arouca B’s defence and plays in the striker, who is clinical and scores.
