Young forward Rodrigo Ribeiro, 20, emphasized the importance of consistent play and hard work for development, even as he rejoined Sporting’s main squad for a Champions League victory.
Ribeiro’s return to the elite competition came due to an injury to teammate Ioannidis. He saw minutes during Sporting’s 3-0 win against Club Brugge.
The forward thanked coach Rui Borges for the opportunity. Ribeiro stated he remains committed to playing regularly, whether for the senior side or the B team.
“I’m happy and I know I have to continue working every day because I want to play, whether here or in the B team,” Ribeiro told journalists.
He corroborated comments from Borges, who viewed Ribeiro’s placement in the B team positively. Ribeiro highlighted the strategic value of the B team’s promotion.
“It was very important for the B team to be promoted to the 2nd League because the context is more similar to the 1st League, and that brings us closer,” Ribeiro explained.
He underscored the critical role of match experience for young athletes. “At our age, the important thing is to play because the game gives things that training doesn’t.”
Ribeiro expressed calmness about his future and his scoring record for the main team. He has yet to find the net with the senior squad.
“The little goal will appear with work,” he added, conveying a patient outlook.
The 20-year-old also declined to discuss qualification scenarios in the Champions League. He focused instead on the immediate challenge.
“I don’t really know what the calculations are, I only know that this victory was important,” Ribeiro said.
He acknowledged the inherent difficulty of the competition. “However, we know that in this competition every game is always complicated, whether the opponent has a bigger name or a smaller name. Every game we play will always be very difficult.”