Sporting's new firestarter sparks debate online: it's a habit! | OneFootball

Sporting's new firestarter sparks debate online: it's a habit! | OneFootball

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Leonino

·6 September 2026

Sporting's new firestarter sparks debate online: it's a habit!

Article image:Sporting's new firestarter sparks debate online: it's a habit!

Flávio Gonçalves is emerging as one of Sporting's biggest revelations at the start of this season. At 19, the number 58 shirt has already earned a prominent place in Rui Borges' plans, who handed him a starting role in Sporting's attack, and he has delivered with impressive numbers: three goals and one assist in five official matches.

The rise of the young Portuguese-French player, however, is not limited to the impact he has had on the pitch; he has also won over the fans and, above all, his own teammates, who have closely followed the development of a player who began the season with room to show his worth.


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After his strong performances in the opening rounds, he once again became a talking point on social media. In an Instagram post in which he assured that Sporting are "ready" for the challenges ahead, Flávio Gonçalves received several messages of support, including some from his teammates.

Debast was one of the players to react, leaving an emphatic "Mercy!", while Irankunda used the term "Starboy" to praise his teammate. Zaid Bafdili, a midfielder for the B team who has also been closely following the youngster's rise, was equally direct in his reaction and wrote: "It's becoming a habit!"

Little by little, Flávio Gonçalves is no longer just one of Rui Borges' bets and is becoming one of the faces of the new Sporting. The coach's trust, his performances on the pitch, and the recognition of his teammates help explain the status the youngster is already beginning to earn at Alvalade. Diogo Luís also praised the player.

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

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