10 World-Class Footballers Who Were Rejected as Youngsters

The beautiful game of football produces so much that it is often deemed as 'religion' by its followers. Devotees, rather. Goals, tackles, mind games, tactics and an ever-evolving complexion snowballs into the gorgeous aspect of it.Football is simply a process. From the technique that has developed to the structure followed by teams, it has all gone through a cycle of an establishment.Moving on to the individuals who bless the game and are equally venerated by it; the progress of a football player as well begins with baby steps and goes on with similar small steps.In professional terms, one sharpens their skills at the youth level whilst playing for an academy. After that, the hope of progressing to a senior squad bombards their caliber into the world stage, where the entire fraternity casts their eye on their footballing prowess.Along with the glitter and glamour that goes hand-in-hand with hard work, every player undergoes hardships in his career.In the end, it's all about the fire in you that ignites the field, sets it ablaze and burns the opponents to ashes. In the end, it's about grabbing the eyeballs of that one scout who is due to take you places and make you a household name. In the end, it's all about that one performance that wins you a permanent senior contract. In the end, it's all about bringing the best out of yourself.A huge pool of players have blessed the game with performances that adjectives can barely explain, but they too, have seen the worst of days.As teenagers, these professionals had been dismissed by world-class clubs. However, they carried the flame and backed their capabilities to go down in the history books as great players.Here are 10 such conspicuous talents in football who were rejected as teenagers.#10 Diego CostaDiego Costa is one of the most unique strikers in the modern gameUntil the age of 15, Diego Costa hadn't even received proper coaching from any club. Neither did he manage to join a renowned team in Brazil, nor could he sharpen his skills at an academic institution.The striker traveled to Sao Paulo to play for a local club which was run by his uncle. Not only did this prove to be an escape route for the Spain international, but also kick-started a career that is encircled by goals and trophies.With a salary cap of just around £100, Costa saw himself turned down by Corinthians, Palmerias and Santos.One year later, star player agent Jorge Mendes scouted his talent and took him to Braga. After a host of loan spells and an impressive stint at Valladolid, Costa was snapped up by Atletico Madrid in 2010.Since then, the 30-year-old went on to win individual and team honors at Spain and England. His hunger, commitment, finishing and work rate have made him a feared attacking force in European football.

10 World-Class Footballers Who Were Rejected as Youngsters

#9 Mario Balotelli