Fresh update! Sporting signing only expected to be fit in October | OneFootball

Moncef Zekri continues to train apart from the rest of the Sporting squad and will still have to wait to make his debut in the Lions shirt. The 17-year-old left-back is following a specific physical recovery plan, with the club having no intention of rushing the process.

According to newspaper A Bola, Sporting believe the young Moroccan could be reintegrated without limitations after the next international break. That period begins on September 24 and ends on October 4, so Zekri’s first appearance in competition should only come after that date.

The plan is only expected to change if Maxi Araújo suffers any physical problem, as he is the undisputed starter on the left side of the defense. Until then, the priority is to get Zekri physically ready and allow him to adapt gradually to his new environment.

Signed from Mechelen in the final days of the transfer window, the Morocco youth international arrived at Alvalade after already making 17 appearances in the top Belgian league - having also been offered to Benfica. He made his senior debut when he was just 16 years old.

Sporting see Moncef Zekri as a clear bet for the future at left-back. The defender is protected by an €80 million release clause and is expected to start earning a place among Rui Borges’ options once he is fully ready.

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