Mourinho: I'll never sell Rooney
But all idols have to start somewhere. O Rei honed his trade in a place not previously renowned for its sporting prowess, and formed a partnership up front that at the time was more than a match for Neymar's association with Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi that continues to take the world by storm.
Pele, Pepe and Coutinho were the 1960s' attacking superstars, and their story began in the humble surroundings of Santos.
Santos holds a unique place in Brazilian football history. The little institution based in the port city of Sao Paulo state which carries the same name is familiar to aficionados of the 'Beautiful Game' from across the globe, a reputation which belies its standing back in the South American country.