Portuguese midfielder shines in Palmeiras U20 title win in Holland | OneFootball

Newly arrived at Palmeiras, Fábio Só quickly began to draw attention. At 18, the Portuguese midfielder started every match in the Under-20 Otten Innovation Cup, held in the Netherlands, scored a goal against PSV, and finished the tournament as one of the standout players in the campaign that secured Verdão the title unbeaten.

The tournament brought together some of the top youth teams in European football and pitted Palmeiras against heavyweight opponents such as PSV, Manchester United, and Monaco. In the final, the green-and-white side faced PSV again and won 2-1 to lift the trophy.

Fábio Só earns his place and stands out for Palmeiras

Even though he had just joined the club, Fábio Só quickly took on an important role in midfield. The Portuguese player started throughout the competition and showed traits that caught the attention of those following the tournament.

In addition to helping build attacking moves, the midfielder showed the ability to carry the ball, break lines, cover large areas, and compete physically in duels. In the group stage, he also got on the scoresheet in the 3-1 win over PSV.

The youngster’s performances also drew attention outside Brazil. International analyses highlighted his influence in buildup play, physical strength, ball recovery, balance in challenges, and contribution in both attacking and defensive areas. One assessment described the Portuguese player’s display as a “truly complete” performance.

Comparisons with Danilo

In Brazil, Fábio Só’s first performances also sparked comparisons with a player developed by Palmeiras itself: Danilo.

Fans and club-related pages pointed to similarities both physically and in his style of play. His ability to occupy different areas of midfield and contribute in different phases of the match was one of the factors behind the comparison.

From English football to Palmeiras

Fábio Só came through in English football and joined Palmeiras after playing for Burnley. For the English club, the Portuguese player featured for the Under-18s and also had experience with the Under-21s.

The move to Brazilian football represents a new stage in the player’s career, and his first competitive experience in a Palmeiras shirt came in a high-level international tournament.

Starting every match, scoring against PSV, standing out individually, and winning the title in his very first competition for the club, Fábio Só ended the Under-20 Otten Innovation Cup with an impressive calling card.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.