Those who watched Carlos Soler put a hat-trick of goals past Real Madrid in a 4-1 win at Mestalla earlier this season may have noticed a distinctive celebration from the midfielder. The VCF Academy formed an 'A' with his fingers, in what was a dedication to a special person in his life.

The “A” is for Alexis, a young boy with a rare form of bone cancer whose illness resulted in the amputation of his leg to keep him alive. Soler has a unique bond with Alexis, and VCF Media found out the story behind their friendship when they were reunited at the stadium recently.

Their relationship begans over two years ago, through a former coach of Alexis' who has a connection within Soler's group of friends.

They first met the day after a Champions League game against Juventus, when the Valencia CF captain turned up at Alexis' room in the La Fe hospital and presented him with his shirt from the match -something the youngster describes as "One of the best things that has happened in my life."

Since then, Soler has been part of the family, checking in with them regularly and sharing quality time with Alexis when possible. He explains that "The only thing that I want is for him to enjoy himself when we are together, and for that to boost his morale in his daily life."

Alexis was also in attendance at the Copa del Rey final back in 2019, with his mother, Susana Adrián, saying that "His oncologist postponed his chemotherapy cycle so that he could experience the trip to the final, and it was one of the nicest experiences that our family has had."

Soler will remain close to Alexis, and hopes to dedicate many more goals to him in the future.