World Football Stars: Can You Guess The El Clasico Stars From Childhood Photos?
The stars of world football will be on show in this Sunday’s clash at the Santiago Bernabéu… but how quickly can you recognize these stars from their childhood photos? Some of them are easily recognizable, others not so much!
Marcelo
As is the case with countless Brazilians, Marcelo grew up in love with football, spending as many hours as he could with the ball. After initially starting in futsal and after being encouraged by his grandfather, Marcelo joined Fluminense’s academy and afterward the Brazilian made the move to Real Madrid in 2007 when he was just 18 years of age. The rest, as they say, is history.
Frenkie de Jong
Barça’s midfield maestro came through the ranks at Willem II, joining the club’s youth academy aged just seven. There he made his name as a versatile playmaker and, after starring for Ajax, made the move to LaLiga Santander in 2019, seamlessly fitting into FC Barcelona’s midfield.
Vinicius
Real Madrid’s Brazilian star has been a fan of Rio-based Flamengo all his life. He took his first steps in professional football with the Scarlet and Black before making the move to LaLiga Santander in 2018 after turning 18. He continues to show the world why he’s often ranked among the most promising talents in world football but has never forgotten his roots, as this photo shows!
Ferran Torres
Ferran Torres signed for FC Barcelona in the January transfer window of 2022, after starting his career at Valencia CF and Manchester City. He was born and raised in the Valencian Community south of Barcelona and has become a fixture in the Spanish national team under Luis Enrique.
Karim Benzema
Without a doubt, Karim Benzema is one of the best goal-scorers in world football right now. He has always been able to put the ball in the back of the net, dating back to his childhood when he came through the academy at Lyon. Then, in 2009, he joined Real Madrid and is now the club’s third-top goalscorer of all time.
