Lourenço downplays Sporting miss on target: another will play instead | OneFootball

Although Sporting failed to secure a place in the semi-finals of Liga Portugal Legends, Lourenço used the occasion to assess current affairs at the Alvalade club. The former striker expressed confidence in the work being done by the green-and-white structure, but issued a clear warning about the level of demand he expects the team to face in 2026/27.

"Sporting are at a decisive stage. Last year, they failed to win any trophies, and we know the fans will demand titles from the club. In recent years, a lot has been won and they want to keep winning," he said, stressing that the new season will be crucial in order to meet Sporting supporters’ expectations.

Regarding the transfer market, Lourenço praised the strategy followed by the Sporting board. "I think Sporting are working well, in advance. They are not waiting until the last day of the market. There can always be changes on the final day, but to begin with, I think the squad is being strengthened. When the ball starts rolling, that’s when things get more serious," he said.

Asked about the failed signing of João Palhinha, the former player played down the outcome of the process and showed total confidence in the alternatives already in the squad. "If Palhinha doesn’t play, someone else will play in his place", he replied, downplaying the impossibility of the Portuguese international returning to Alvalade.

Lourenço’s remarks come at a time when Sporting remain active in the market and are looking to put the finishing touches on the squad for the new season. With Rui Borges at the helm, the Lions remain focused on returning to winning trophies and meeting the fans’ high expectations.

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