Sporting winger wants Rui Borges' trust to earn starting spot | OneFootball

The January transfer window brought Luís Guilherme to the Alvalade Club. The player arrived bag and baggage, ready to fight for a place in Rui Borges’ starting plans despite the stiff competition from Pote, Trincão and Geny Catamo.

However, at a time when he was growing within the team, an injury halted the winger’s opportunities. Even though he showed a little of what he can add, he now heads into 2026/27 determined to win the coach’s trust.

Signed from West Ham for €14 million (plus €3 million in add-ons) on a contract until 2030 and with an €80 million release clause, he scored his first goal in his fifth game in green and white and said he was “very happy” and eager to achieve more: “I hope I can help in the best way possible.”

However, a sprain to his left foot suffered on the eve of the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 against Bodo/Glimt ruled Luís Guilherme out of Rui Borges’ plans. He spent four weeks on the sidelines and, despite returning in April, his physical condition remained affected, meaning the winger only played another 206 minutes that season.

In this way, the summer transfer window could even work in Luis Guilherme’s favour. With Pote and Trincão - who has already played at the Club World Cup - on the verge of a possible departure, the Brazilian could seize a place in the starting eleven. As such, pre-season will be crucial to impress Rui Borges and prove that he is ready to take on the responsibility and demands of the Club.

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