The midfielder arrives as the latest summer reinforcement

Sporting CP have signed midfielder Giorgi Kochorashvili on a contract through to 2030, with an 80 million euros buyout clause.

The Georgian, who has represented his country at senior level since 2023, joins from Spanish side Levante UD, with whom he achieved promotion as winners of the Spanish Segunda División this past season. Previously, he has also turned out for Girona FC, CF Peralada and CD Castellón in Spain, since arriving in 2017.

The 26-year-old was presented on Sunday, with club president Frederico Varandas. Kochorashvili began talking about Captain America, the superhero who serves as the inspiration for his goal celebration.

"In the story of Captain America, people said that he was weak, that he wasn't ready. Then, he transformed himself and saved the world, helping people. When I do my celebration, it's for all the children who are told that they're not ready for challenges. What I tell them is that if I can do it -and if Captain America can do it- then they can too. You have to believe, work hard and have discipline," he said of his identification with the comic book hero.

At Sporting CP, Kochorashvili will have the opportunity to make his debut in the UEFA Champions League, which he sees as "every child's dream."

"When I was younger, I dreamed of one day being able to play in that competition. My parents wouldn't let me watch the UEFA Champions League games because it was too late and I needed to sleep, but now I'm making a dream come true. I just want to help, because the team is the most important thing. I know I can contribute, both on and off the pitch."

Of his arrival and opening days of training, the midfielder stated that "All of my teammates have welcomed me very well, as if I were a brother or a son. When you come to a new home, you feel different, but within a day or two they have made me feel like one of them," he revealed.

"I already knew that Sporting CP were a big club, because of the huge fanbase they have. I can't wait to get out onto the pitch and celebrate with the fans."

"Of course, we will have difficulties, but I know that if we stick together, we can continue what has been done before. I will work to demonstrate that I am worthy of wearing this shirt, which is the most important thing," he added.

"I want to improve every year, especially in terms of the details. I give everything in defence and attack, try to control the pace of the game and get into the box," he explained.

"We all like to score goals, but the most important thing is to help my teammates wherever they need it. If a full-back or winger needs me to cover for them, I'll be there. I want to be a player who adds value to my teammates. The words I like most are 'perseverance' and 'resilience.' We'll have difficulties, but I'll work hard every day to overcome them," he promised.

Finally, Kochorashvili left a message to Sporting CP fans: "Let's enjoy this a lot. Let's fight hard and keep our confidence. The most important thing in our lives is to enjoy what we do. Let's do our part and I believe it will be very beautiful."