When a player inks a deal that stretches to the end of the decade, it’s more than just a signature on paper. It’s a statement. A promise. For Sporting CP, Pedro Gonçalves – affectionately known as Pote – has just delivered a big one. His contract renewal, now official, ties him to the Lions until 2030.
This agreement, though only finalized in recent days, has been a long time coming. Local sports paper Record had hinted at it last Monday afternoon. Pote, a 27-year-old attacking force, now finds himself among the highest-paid players on the national two-time champions’ roster. His release clause remains a steep €80 million, showing his immense value to the club.
"I feel happy," Pote shared with the club’s official media. "It’s always a moment of pride to renew with my heart club and keep playing for Sporting. I’ve always felt very good here. I also feel that the club, the president, and everyone wants me to be part of the club’s history." He sees this as a dream come true, admitting he never expected to join such a major club. "I’m happy to be making my history, my path," he added. "The most important thing is to bring trophies to the club. One day, I hope to visit our museum and see my name there."
This is Pote’s sixth season wearing the striped green and white. Since moving from Vila Nova de Famalicão to Lisbon, he has played 209 matches, scoring 87 goals and assisting 52 times. He remembers his journey fondly, reflecting on how much he’s grown.
"I changed many mental aspects," Pote explained, "but I’m still the same person: fun, always giving my best for this jersey." He credits Sporting with giving him everything. "I feel I’m in a stable club," he continued. "It’s a club that has improved its stadium and spent time on its academy. I’m seeing the club grow, and we need to be one of the best, not just in Portugal, but across Europe."
His current form speaks volumes. Pote has enjoyed one of his strongest starts to a season, with six goals and six assists in 2025/26. "It’s one of my best starts," he stated. "I’m going to try my best to keep it that way. We are aiming to win every game we play – that’s our goal until the very end." He finished with a powerful message for the fans: "Believe in this team because you will be very important. We need everyone with us!"