Red Bull.com

By the age of ten Neymar de Silva Santos Junior was already considered a rising star of the football world. Inspired by his father, Neymar has become a national hero and he’s still yet to reach 20.

His unforgettable performances on the pitch have earned him the adoration of the Brazilian fans and scoring within 28 minutes on his debut match for the national team did much to cement his place among the greats. He is often compared to legends Robinho and Pele and it’s believed he has already attracted generous bids from many European teams.

The young player signed with the Sao Paulo-based club Santos in 2003, being promoted to the first team aged 17. His debut match was in March 2009 against Oeste and the following week he scored his first goal with the team against Mogi Mirim.

Neymar is credited with helping to reinvigorate the Brazilian nation’s passion for the sport through his creativity and spontaneous style on the pitch. In August 2010 he made his international debut for Brazil against the USA. Just 18. He scored his first goal 28 minutes into the match to secure a 1-0 victory for the team.

Billed as a future global hero, it is anticipated that Neymar will be a key player in the 2014 World Cup, which takes place in Brazil. The enchanting presence of the young player continues to inspire fans young and old.