Dreams often begin small, in dusty fields with oversized jerseys. For Diogo Travassos, his dream was always green and white. This Tuesday, that long-held dream got a major extension. Sporting CP announced the young full-back has committed his future to the club he loves.
The deal sees the 21-year-old stay with the Lisbon giants until June 2030. His contract includes a hefty release clause, set at 80 million euros. Travassos recently rejoined his teammates, the Green and Whites, for their pre-season training camp in Lagos. His presence there was a clear sign of the club’s faith in him.
This new contract is a big show of trust from the Lions’ leadership. It follows a crucial loan spell at Estrela da Amadora during the 2024/25 season. Speaking to the club’s official channels, the right-back called this renewal another important step in his journey.
“It’s a wonderful feeling,” Travassos shared. “I’ve worn this badge on my chest for 16 years. To sign for five more years fills me with happiness and pride.” He sees Sporting CP as more than just a club. “Sporting is my home,” he explained. “I grew up here, both as a player and a person. I look to the future with great confidence.” He painted a vivid picture of his youth. “I grew up at Pólo EUL, with the jersey flapping around my knees. Today, I get to train with the best and play for Sporting. It’s a dream come true. I try to make the most of every chance I get and all the trust placed in me.”
The defender also reflected on his time away from the Alvalade stadium. He credits his period at Reboleira, with Estrela da Amadora, for significant growth. “Estrela da Amadora gave me a chance,” he stated. “I believe I proved, not just to others, but most importantly to myself, that I am much more ready now. Ready to help Sporting and my teammates achieve their goals.”
Travassos’ path in football hasn’t been without its bumps. Early in his career, while wearing the lion on his chest, he faced a tough challenge. A serious meniscus injury to his right knee forced him off the pitch. He vividly recalled that difficult time. “Resilience is a quality that truly defines me,” he said. “If I wasn’t resilient, I wouldn’t be here today. It’s something I worked hard to develop. Many people helped me see that this was the right path. That’s why I have that word tattooed. It will stay with me forever, not just in football but in life too.” He shared a powerful piece of advice that guided him. “As a very important person once told me: ‘we are as big as our will.’ In that tough moment, the people around me didn’t let me fall. I grew so much on many levels. Many questions and doubts popped into my head, but I got through it, and today, everything is fine.”