Overhaul didn't stop Sporting: 17 goals, 12 scorers warn Liga | OneFootball

Despite the genuine revolution brought about by Frederico Varandas in the summer transfer market, Sporting began preparations for 2026/27 at a very high level. The departures of names such as Morten Hjulmand, Francisco Trincão, Geovany Quenda and Hidemasa Morita, which could be joined by Ousmane Diomande, Pote and Daniel Bragança, suggested a difficult period ahead, but Rui Borges saw the team respond in the best possible way on the pitch.

The Lions finished pre-season with 17 goals scored by 12 different players against Strasbourg, Celtic, Monaco and Nottingham Forest, showing an attacking strength that sends a serious warning to their rivals before the start of the league. The distribution of the goals also highlights a strong collective, where several options have managed to make the difference.

Among the new signings, Rodrigo Zalazar quickly took on a leading role, justifying the record investment of 30 million euros. Issa Doumbia also won over Rui Borges with high-level performances, already totaling one goal and one assist, while Sergi Altimira showed enough quality to minimize Hjulmand’s departure and take on an important role in Sporting’s midfield.

In attack, the options have also increased. Luis Suárez is still working his way back to full fitness after the World Cup, Fotis Ioannidis returned from injury with a goal, Rafael Nel once again showed his efficiency, and Flávio Gonçalves confirmed himself as one of the big revelations of this pre-season. At the same time, Gonçalo Inácio and Eduardo Quaresma are establishing themselves as dressing-room leaders, while Maxi Araújo continues to be regarded as an untouchable part of the squad.

In addition to the positive signs on the pitch, Sporting continue to fine-tune the squad. Daniel Bragança has been linked with Olympiacos at a time when he is entering the final year of his contract, while Souleymane Faye is already in France to join Lorient on loan, in a deal that includes a purchase option worth 6.5 million euros. Meanwhile, Ousmane Diomande is waiting for developments in the negotiations with Nottingham Forest, who remain interested in signing the Ivory Coast international.

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