Zeno Debast moves Sporting fans with touching off-pitch gesture | OneFootball

Zeno Debast moves Sporting fans with touching off-pitch gesture | OneFootball

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Leonino

·15 January 2026

Zeno Debast moves Sporting fans with touching off-pitch gesture

Article image:Zeno Debast moves Sporting fans with touching off-pitch gesture

Zeno Debast, in the final stretch of his recovery, decided to dedicate his time to those in need. The Sporting center-back carried out an emotional double act of solidarity, visiting the Casa de Santo António — an institution that shelters young mothers — and the Association Animals Without Borders. The young 22-year-old defender didn't just deliver gifts; he made sure to share moments of joy with everyone present.

"It's a pleasure to help people"

"It's fantastic to be here. My mother worked in these types of environments, so since I was young, I've always been surrounded by these initiatives. It's a pleasure to help people and laugh with them", confessed the player, visibly moved by the impact of the visits.


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For Debast, the role of a football player should go far beyond what happens on the field. The number 6 of the lions emphasized that physical presence and emotional support outweigh any material value in these situations. "Money and gifts are not the most important; it's necessary to show that it's possible to support these people, and that's what I'm doing here. I like to see these people and the animals happy", reiterated the center-back, who had been injured since October.

Through his social media, the athlete reinforced the call for solidarity, challenging Sporting's followers and fans to follow his example and contribute to local institutions. This humanitarian side of Debast has been highly praised by the fan base, reinforcing his status as a beloved figure in the squad led by Rui Borges, who confirmed the center-back's availability for tomorrow's game, Friday, the 16th, against Casa Pia. The match starts at 8:15 PM, at the José Alvalade Stadium.

The international for the "red devils" - valued at 30 million euros - until his forced break, accumulated 855 minutes on the field, divided into 13 games.

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

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