The defender signs a new deal at Sporting CP

Sporting Clube de Portugal and Eduardo Quaresma have reached an agreement on a contract extension through to 2031.

The 24-year-old defender, who has been at the club since 2011/12, has played over 100 games for the first team since debuting in 2019/20. He has won three Liga Portugal titles, one Taça de Portugal and one Taça da Liga in this time.

"It's a feeling of pride and a sign that Sporting CP have believed in my work over the years. I feel at home, I feel good and I'm happy with this renewal," Quaresma told Sporting CP media after the extension was confirmed.

"Not even in my wildest dreams did I think that I would be here for so long. I was a kid when I came here, I was looking to have fun and enjoy football as much as possible. When things started to get more serious, I realised I could reach the first team."

One of those to wear the captain’s armband this preseason, the Under-21 international revealed that he is inspired by former skippers Sebastián Coates and Morten Hjulmand.

"They were two completely different captains, but two great examples that I try to follow. I still talk to them a lot and I know the responsibility that comes with being captain here. This was also a childhood dream and I feel very proud," he said.

Quaresma has had loan spells at CD Tondela (2021/22) and the German side TSG 1899 Hoffenheim (2022/23), returning in 2023/24 to earn his place. He reflects on this as a learning experience.

"Even during the time I was out on loan, I tried to give my best. Those were two mentally difficult years, but I was a warrior and managed to turn things around. I didn't evolve so much as a player, but mentally. I became more mature, and that's what the manager was looking for at the time. It wasn't about quality or commitment; I needed to grow as a person, and those two years helped," he stated.

He already has someone the players coming up from the B team looking up to him, which he explains is "a bit strange. I've been part of the first team since I was 17, I'm only 24 and I'm already starting to be a reference point for those who are coming through now. It's a source of pride because at their age I also had role models at the club. I hope to be at the level they expect of me."

"Winning trophies at Sporting CP is something you never get tired of. it's one of the best feelings in the world. Making history at such a big club makes you proud, and I try, every year, to win everything possible."

Quaresma highlighted the good atmosphere that has been created with the various reinforcements who have already joined the group.

"The players who have come in have integrated very well into the group. Sporting CP's culture is family-oriented, and they come prepared to be well received. The work has been well done, and we are creating a very good, united family to face the new season," he said.

Finally, he addressed the Sporting CP fans.

"We respect each other. They see that I give everything for them, and I also feel that they always support me and the team. It's a relationship of respect and affection. I can only thank the Sporting CP fans. May they continue to support us, and I hope to bring them many trophies."