Matheus Reis leaves Sporting in tears: it was the peak of my career | OneFootball

Before heading to Russia, where he will represent CSKA Moscow, Matheus Reis bid farewell to Sporting and the leonine fans in an interview given to the Club's official channel. The Brazilian defender reflected on “five years of many achievements and many battles,” leaving with the feeling of “mission accomplished.”

"The word ‘happiness’ sums up the last five years. I leave here a winner. Not just because of the trophies, but because of the friendships, camaraderie, stories... Everything. I leave with my head held high, I leave through the front door. Sporting was the peak of my career so far. The club where I played the most, where I had the most titles. I managed to make my mark in the Champions League. Sporting means everything to me", he stated.

The player also recalled the difficult period before arriving at Alvalade, when he spent six months training separately at Rio Ave, as well as challenging moments already wearing the lion on his chest. Nevertheless, he emphasized the support received at the club, from the management to the staff.

"There were very difficult moments, they tried to portray an image of me that wasn’t who I am. I responded on the field, I decided I would show, day by day, the professional and the person I am. Those more difficult moments are what strengthen us and make us better. No one wants to go through those moments, but sometimes they come to make us better. When I arrived at Sporting, still a youngster, I knew that to win would be difficult. I had to evolve in everything: physical, mental, spiritual...", he admitted.

At 30 years old, Matheus Reis assures that he will continue to support Sporting, just like the rest of his family. "My son, my wife, my parents, our family feels the Club deeply. I am very professional, but I am also a big fan. I want Sporting to be victorious in everything. At home, we suffer a lot for Sporting, both my family here and those in Brazil. I am leaving but the suffering will remain the same, I will always support. Departure? When I told Jackie and Teteu - who already understands everything, Malu doesn’t yet but already has several Sporting outfits - it was emotional, there were tears, but never of sadness. Our mark will remain here, even from afar we will continue to support. It is a feeling of happiness and mission accomplished, that is the most important", he mentioned.

Finally, he highlighted the spirit of unity experienced at Alvalade. "When players leave, what they miss most is this feeling of family, of being well cared for and respected by everyone. Going to away games in the Champions League and your family being able to go too... That is indescribable for a player, there is no greater motivation. It is what makes this club different. It is no wonder that results appear on the field", he concluded.

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