"The future will be bright," says new man in charge at Os Leões

Sporting Clube de Portugal presented Rui Borges as new coach of the first team, on a contract through to 2026.

At the Estádio José Alvalade, Borges - who joins from Vitória SC - was accompanied by Frederico Varandas, president of the Board of Directors, other members of the Board of Directors and other members of the coaching staff, for his official presentation.

Varandas was the first to speak, and began by dedicating a few words to outgoing coach João Pereira.

"João Pereira came in at a time when everyone knew there was an extremely tough challenge ahead. Unfortunately, we came to the conclusion that it was not working out. We knew the difficulties and the brutal emotional shock caused by Rúben Amorim's departure. There was also a wave of injuries, the likes of which I have never had before as president of this club, and unfortunate refereeing calls that went against us," he began by saying.

"The only thing I regret was not being able to help João Pereira more. We wish João all the best and have no doubt that he will succeed due to the qualities, skills and character he has. When I sat down with João Pereira to negotiate his termination , he didn't even want a cent as a payoff."

"Rui Borges' appointment marks a new chapter, looking to the future. He is a coach that we have had on our radar for over a year, who has progressed throughout his career. He started at a modest club, in SC Mirandela, and has moved to increasingly demanding clubs, always with his same style and leadership. Sporting CP are alive on all fronts, fighting for all the trophies available, and will continue to fight."

It was then Rui Borges' turn to speak, and he thanked Varandas "for his words, for his confidence and for his courage in seeing this coaching group as capable of leading Sporting CP."

"It makes us proud and happy. Thank you, too, to Vitória SC for everything they did and for believing in us. Everyone was important in our journey so we could fulfill our dream of getting here," he added.

The coach assured that he was "very happy, proud and honoured."

"I don't have many words to describe the feeling in the last few days. I'm happy and looking forward to getting to work. I have enormous confidence. The future will be bright. I don't see the current moment as being 'delicate;' the team are in every competition. I'm very happy to represent the Portuguese champions, it's a dream come true. Now that we're here, we want to work. What I promise is that: Hard work," he assured.

Regarding objectives for the remainder of the campaign, Borges explained that he wanted to "add trophies to Sporting CP's history, as well as giving joy to the fans. That's our focus. I'm happy with the players we have. We are going to be competent and competitive with them. For me, they are the best. At this great club, the demand is for victories and trophies. That's what we are here for, to fight for that. Things may not always work out, but there can be no lack of attitude," he stated

The 43 year old coach had been in charge of Vitória SC since the beginning of the season, finishing the league stage of the UEFA Conference League in second place, with four wins and two draws. In Liga Portugal, they are in sixth place.

Before Vitória SC, Borges coached SC Mirandela, Académico de Viseu FC, A. Académica de Coimbra, CD Nacional, UD Vilafranquense, CD Mafra and Moreirense FC, whilst his playing career saw him turn out for several clubs in the north of the country.