David Kaua: Palmeiras' latest teenage talent with Champions League dreams

The 18-year-old recently shone at the CEE Cup in Prague, and is keen to follow in the footsteps of his footballing icon, Lionel Messi

Vision, organisation, planning and above all the incredible ability to find and train world-class talent, Palmeiras continue to reap the rewards of excellent work on and off the pitch at academy level. The Verdao are producing one success after another thanks to their ability to find diamonds that have grown and blossomed in Sao Paulo.

Some have gone on to lock down roles in the club's first team, while others have said or are planning to say goodbye, leaving their homeland to make their European dream come true while netting Palmeiras millions; the natural consequence and fruits of a job done in a careful and smart way.

That was again on show at the 2023 CEE Cup, as the Verdao defended the crown they won in 2022 at the prestigious Under-19s tournament that is held in Prague on an annual basis. The leader of the team this time around was attacking midfielder David Kaua, who was named the NXGN Player of the Tournament.

Kaua lit up all stages from the tournament, from his Olimpico goal direct from a corner in Palmeiras' opening group game against West Ham, all the way through to his sparkling display in the 2-1 final win over Slavia Prague.

But what makes the 18-year-old so special? Let NXGN explain...