Official! Sporting centre-back agrees with Varandas to stay | OneFootball

It’s official. Sporting have secured the future of another one of their academy prospects, with Gabriel Rato signing a youth contract with the Club. The 14-year-old centre-back has thus strengthened his bond with the Lions, after several seasons serving the green-and-white setup.

The young player began his football journey with Leão Altivo Associação, affiliated with the Setúbal Football Association, before joining the Lions in the 2020/21 season. Since then, he has continued his development through Sporting’s youth ranks.

Last season, the centre-back took another important step in his development by moving to the Cristiano Ronaldo Academy. In 2025/26, Gabriel Rato made 23 appearances for the Lions, continuing to establish himself as one of the club’s young prospects.

Next season, the player will join Sporting’s under-15 team, which lost 3-1 to Vitória de Guimarães, in the match corresponding to the 18th and final round of the Championship Qualification Phase in the under-15 category.

Porto were crowned champions (44). Braga finished in third place (35), followed by Benfica (33).

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