International Football NewsLatest Soccer News

‘His career exploded in one moment’: Thabo Cele on ex-teammate João Félix

Newly signed Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thabo Cele recalls witnessing Chelsea forward João Félix’s career explode during their time together at Benfica B in Portugal.

Cele moved to Portugal in 2016, joining Real Sport Clube. His impressive performance in the Under-19 KZN International Tournament caught the attention of scouts, who took him to Portugal for trials.

After a stint with Real Sport Clube, the former South African youth international swiftly joined the ranks of super-agent Jorge Mendes. Mendes is the agent of former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

His agency facilitated the talented midfielder’s move to Benfica’s B team, where he spent two seasons. Félix, initially in the youth ranks of FC Porto, was released by the club purportedly due to his slight frame. In 2015, aged 15, he signed with city rivals Benfica.

Interestingly, Félix made his professional debut at 16 for Benfica’s reserve team in Liga Pro the same year Cele moved to Portugal in 2016. At that time, the former Atletico Madrid star became the youngest player to debut for Benfica B.

Thabo Cele with his new teammates at Kaizer Chiefs at a training session
Thabo Cele. Picture by Kaizer Chiefs

In 2017, Cele found himself in the same team as the Portuguese international, who was still a relatively unknown prospect.

WHAT THABO CELE SAID ABOUT JOĀO FÉLIX’S CHANGE OF FORTUNES

In a previous interview with FARPost, the KwaMashu-born midfielder opened up about witnessing the 25-year-old forward’s change of fortunes. Félix was promoted to Benfica’s first team for the 2018/19 season, the same year Cele signed for Cova da Piedade in the Portuguese second division.

“I was playing with him regularly at Benfica B,” Cele told FARPost. “His career exploded in one moment. It’s also something inspiring. You play for many years, and suddenly, in six months, your life can change completely.”

The multi-functional midfielder will also be hoping for a change of fortunes after his move to Naturena. He could make his debut against Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby. The match is set for Saturday, 1 February, at the FNB Stadium.

RELATED STORY: The Portuguese dictionary that sparked Thabo Cele’s European dream

Back to top button