Official! Ex-Benfica full-back signs for Sporting | OneFootball

Official: João Rijo, a 17-year-old left-back, has signed his first professional contract with Sporting. The footballer, who plays on the left flank, is already part of the Club’s under-19 squad, where he has made 17 appearances and scored two goals this season. In addition, he featured in two matches for the under-17s and made his UEFA Youth League debut, having played one match wearing the lion on his chest. He is also a Portugal under-17 international.

He got his first touches of the ball at a club close to home, moved to Benfica, joined Alverca for one season, and has worn green and white since the under-14 level. Speaking to the Club’s media, the young prospect said he was proud to sign his first professional contract with the Lions. “The feeling of signing a contract with Sporting is very good, because it is something I have been working towards since I arrived here. Fulfilling another dream and reaching another milestone only shows that I have been doing my job well and that Sporting recognizes that too. I’m happy and I just have to thank Sporting and those who support me.”

João Rijo names Maxi Araújo, the Alvalade side’s ‘number 20’, as his biggest role model in the first team. “The example I like to follow is Maxi Araújo, because I really like his attitude, the fight he shows on the pitch, and I think I have similar characteristics to him.” As for his journey wearing the lion on his chest, João Rijo has clear goals, aiming to go very far and reach greater heights. “My biggest dream is to make my debut for the first team at the José Alvalade Stadium, with my family there present.”

To finish, the young Lion took the opportunity to address Sporting’s fans. “I want to thank the fans for always following Sporting everywhere. Everyone knows they are a fundamental part of the Club. I also wanted to thank them for following me. I hope to keep giving my all for Sporting and to make you happy.”

It should be remembered that, Sporting’s under-19 team is currently in fourth place in the 2025/2026 Championship Qualification Phase. With 10 matches played, the young “Lions” have collected 15 points, with 4 wins, 3 draws and 3 defeats. Their next match takes place this Saturday, 25 April, at 11:00, when Sporting will travel to face Gil Vicente.

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