Sporting forward puts himself forward for captaincy: I'd like that, yes | OneFootball

Rafael Nel admitted that he dreams of one day wearing the Sporting captain’s armband. The 21-year-old forward recalled that he already performed that role in the club’s youth ranks and did not hide his ambition to do so again in the first team.

"I was already captain in the youth teams, so yes, I’d like that," he told the club’s official media. The player also expressed satisfaction with the growing importance he has been gaining in Rui Borges’ squad, assuring that he remains focused on the daily work: "The work is still there, the goals are still there, and it’s about always doing your best."

The youngster also acknowledged that the absences of Luis Suárez and Fotis Ioannidis have opened up space for him to get more minutes at this stage of pre-season: "I always end up having a bit more space, given the absences, but I’m not focused on that. I’m more focused on the day-to-day work and the opportunities I get," he explained.

Asked about Morten Hjulmand’s departure to Atlético Madrid, Rafael Nel admitted that losing a player of that stature is never easy, although he has confidence in the group’s response. "It always hurts a bit, because of the person he is."

The Portugal under-21 international also highlighted the strong presence of Academy-trained players during the pre-season camp: "I see it as a good thing. I think it’s very good for our youth system. We have many players who can go on to make a name for themselves. I’ve been in their place before and I think they are making the most of the opportunity well."

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