Joao Felix among football stars losing their way

Several former Golden Boy winners struggle to maintain successful careers despite early promise.

Joao Felix and three others who lost their way after success

Joao Felix and other past winners of Tuttosport's Golden Boy award, such as Mario Balotelli, Anthony Martial, and Renato Sanches, illustrate that winning a prestigious accolade does not guarantee lasting success in football. Despite showcasing immense talent at a young age, these players have faced significant challenges and setbacks in their careers. Balotelli's inconsistent performances, Martial's surprise move to Greece after a disappointing tenure at Manchester United, and Sanches' underwhelming loan spells have all contributed to their diminished roles in the sport. Felix's journey from Benfica's top prospect to playing in the lesser-known Saudi Pro League highlights the unpredictable nature of a football career, raising questions about the factors that define sustained success in the sport.

The struggles of these former Golden Boy winners show that talent alone does not suffice in football. Balotelli and Martial's footnotes in football history illustrate the pressure young players face to convert early potential into career-long achievements. The movement of players like Felix to leagues considered secondary further emphasizes the unpredictable career paths that can follow initial fame. This reflects broader themes in sport where, despite talent, many variables ultimately determine long-term success.

Highlights

The paths of these once-promising stars remind us that success in sports is often transient.