On Saturday we meet with Michael Pinto to talk about his progress so far at Sporting and what the NextGen Series means to him.

What does it mean to play for Sporting in Europe?
It is an honour. Any kid at this age dreams of playing for a Club as big as Sporting and I am lucky enough to have realised that dream. Obviously now we want to do the Club proud in Europe.

Why is the NextGen Series so important?
It really highlights the work that various European clubs have been doing at youth level. If Sporting wins this competition then it will bring a lot prestige for us.

What would you say you have already done for Sporting?
I was only 12 when I left Luxemburg. I left my family and friends behind to come a live my dream in Portugal, but I am really hapy at the Club.

What has been your most memorable moment so far in a Sporting shirt?
Without doubt it is our 5-1 win against Liverpool. It was a brilliant game an we worked well together. We work as hard as we can everyday so that we can repreat performances like that.

What do the fans mean to the team?
The support of our fans really gives us the motivation that we need to win.

Why is the Sporting/Puma Academy so important?
Sporting has always had a reputation as a team that trains players well and the Academy really helps with that. It is a place where we can work hard and that gives us what we need to become professionals.

Rafael Veloso: “Show our worth”