Luis Suarez and Sergi Altimira reacted with delight after Sporting CP recovered from an early setback to beat Galatasaray 3-1 in their Champions League opener. The victory was capped by Rodrigo Zalazar's stunning free-kick on a hostile Alvalade return for Rafael Leao.
The road to Madrid begins this week as the league phase gets under way - but which teams are currently looking in the best shape to go on and lift the European Cup?
Sporting CP head coach Rui Borges has addressed the growing speculation surrounding Goncalo Inacio after the defender was left out of the starting lineup on Saturday. With AC Milan showing keen interest in bringing the Portugal international to San Siro and rumors linking him to Barcelona, the manager admitted he cannot guarantee the 24-year-old central defender will remain at the club before the transfer window closes.
Nottingham Forest are on the verge of completing one of the most significant deals of the summer transfer window after reaching an agreement for Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande. The Ivory Coast international has been a target for several elite clubs across Europe, but the Reds have moved decisively to secure his signature.
Chelsea starlet Jesse Derry marked a memorable start to his loan spell with Sporting CP by scoring a sensational goal in a 2–0 pre-season victory over AS Monaco. The 19-year-old winger, who has joined the Portuguese side on a season-long loan, capped the moment by mimicking Cole Palmer's iconic 'cold' celebration.
Paul Pogba has made a long-awaited return to the pitch for Monaco, featuring in a pre-season friendly as he fights to save his career in the South of France. The World Cup winner has endured a nightmare spell at the Stade Louis II, but his appearance this weekend offers a glimmer of hope that he could yet play a role under new management.
Atletico Madrid have completed the signing of Morten Hjulmand from Sporting CP in a €40 million deal. The Denmark international has signed a contract until June 2031 after completing his medical, becoming Diego Simeone's latest midfield addition ahead of the new season.
Atletico Madrid have moved a significant step closer to bolstering their midfield options after reaching a full agreement to sign Sporting CP captain Morten Hjulmand. The Danish international is expected to become a cornerstone of Diego Simeone's new-look side at the Metropolitano.
Sporting CP
