The new arrival reunites with coach Rui Borges

Ricardo Mangas has become the newest addition to Sporting Clube de Portugal's first-team squad. The 27-year-old left winger joins from FK Spartak Moskva and has signed a contract until 2029, with a €60 million release clause.

The club's new No.91 reunites with coach Rui Borges, with whom he has worked before.

"It was impossible to say no, right? It's an opportunity to represent the champions from the last two seasons," he said upon arriving for his official presentation.

In 2017/2018, the coach and player were together at Mirandela, competing in the lower levels of Portuguese football. They reunited at Vitória SC, where they qualified for a European competition in 2023/24, and will now work together again at Alvalade.

"He's someone who knows me very well. I also know him very well, and we've always gotten along beautifully. But it's Sporting CP, above all".

Able to play as a fullback or higher up the pitch, Mangas believes this versatility is an advantage built over time and competitive experience.

"Observing, analysing, and growing in various contexts is part of a player's development. Being able to play in three or four positions has helped me a lot as an athlete. I'm more mature and I really want to help Sporting CP," he said.

"Playing in France and Russia are completely different realities. I had to adapt, and that helped me grow as an athlete and as a man. I feel like I'm different."

"Everything is perfect here. The team are very close-knit. It's noticeable, and anyone who watches the games knows. A dressing room has to be a family; I share that philosophy, and I want to be a part of it," he emphasised.

Already in competitive shape after the official start of the season in Russia, the Portugal Under-17 international feels "fully prepared" to help as soon as the coaching staff see fit.

"Sporting CP fans are demanding, and that's good. It makes a player grow and get better at problem-solving under pressure. The fact that they're demanding makes us demanding on ourselves, and that's what makes a club win trophies, obviously."