“Over the moon” Portuguese wonderkid Rodrigo Mora eager to play Champions League football with Roma | OneFootball

Mora's arrival has caused excitement in Rome [Getty Images]

Rodrigo Mora has experienced his first days as an AS Roma player after completing a €25m move from FC Porto, in a story which has provoked major excitement in the Italian capital.

The 19-year-old signed a five-year contract with the Giallorossi on Wednesday, while Porto retain a 50% sell-on clause. The clubs have also agreed an option for Roma to purchase the full rights of Mora, who took part in his first training session on Thursday.

Mora was greeted by a large crowd at the airport in Rome, as well as a whirlwind of social media frenzy surrounding his arrival. Speaking to the club’s in-house media on Thursday, Mora admitted the Roma supporters continue to make an impact on him.

“Firstly, I’d like to thank Roma and FC Porto,” he said. “I’m really happy to be here. I’d like to thank the welcome from the fans at the airport. I’m over the moon. I hope to have a great season here.

“Everyone knows the negotiations were tough and protracted. I was desperate to come here, I was always hopeful even when things weren’t going so well. When I found out that I would be coming here I was delighted.

“I’d like to thank all the Roma supporters, because when I found out I was coming here the fans started sending me messages, which I found touching. That made me happy and that’s why I’m grateful to everyone.

“The Roma fans left quite the impression on me [when Porto played Roma in 2025] because they’re really passionate and made a lot of noise. Hearing the fans was memorable. It was a tough game and Roma came out on top in the end. What stood out most was the supporters.”

Gasperini, Dybala, Champions League 

The new adventure in Italy brings many fascinating aspects, including the chance to work under Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini, who has gained a reputation for developing technical attacking players, as well as a first taste of the Champions League for Mora.

“I always dreamed of [playing in the Champions League] and I’m yet to debut in the competition,” Mora said. “I know that I’m still young but it’s a dream and aim that I’ve always had. I’m really eager and happy to play in the Champions League.

“I’m really eager to work with the boss. I think he’s a big fan of number 10s. I think we’ll connect well as I enjoy that role. I watched a lot of Dybala during my childhood. I’m excited that I now get to play with him. I can’t wait to play with him and to get to know him.

“I’m still taking it all in. It’s my first time living away from Porto, my whole life was there.

“However, I’ve got no doubts that this will be a good step so I’m happy to be here.”