Carlos Tevez Boca Juniors 1999, MVP & Top Scorer

“I still have my Premier Cup Trophy at home. I was so proud to be voted MVP of our national tournament but when you are fourteen years old you just want to play football and have fun. If you win something with your team that’s a bonus. It is not until later, when you look back, that you realise what a big impact a tournament like this can make on your life and your career.”

Born 1984 in Cuidadela, Buenos Aires, “Carlitos” developed his skills, ball control and renowned tenacity on the mean streets of Fuerta Apache. After progressing through the youth programmes at All Boys and Boca Juniors, he made his professional debut at just 17 years-of-age.

Described by Diego Maradona as the “Argentine prophet for the 21st century”, Tevez’ early honours include South American Footballer of the Year, Sportsman of the Year and gold medallist at the 2004 Olympics. His record-breaking move to Brazilian club Corinthians presented new challenges and, despite a dubious initial reception from fans, his characteristic style of play earned him superstar status, the Captain’s armband — and a league title for his new Club.

Determined that his future lay in Europe, Tevez spent a season at West Ham before switching to Manchester United in a blaze of publicity during the summer of 2007. With 19 goals scored in his first season, he rapidly became an Old Trafford favourite.

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