“It’s a childhood dream come true,” says the new arrival

Antunes has signed a two-year contract with Sporting Clube de Portugal, joining the club for the 2020/21 and 2021/22 seasons.

The move is a homecoming for the portuguese defender, who has spent the past seven and half years in Spain and Ukraine.

“It’s sensational to be able to come back to Portugal, and to do so representing a Club like Sporting CP,” he told the Club media. “Playing for a big portuguese team is a childhood dream that is coming true now. It’s an enormous responsability for me, and I couldn’t let the opportunity go by.”

Antunes considers his experience abroad something that has made him “grow and improve,” and that he is “stronger than before.” Grateful for the chance to play in his homeland again, he promised that he will be up to the task.

“Above all, I work hard. I’ve never been the most attractive player to watch in terms of technique, but I’m not bad,” he joked. “I’ve always stood out for my fight and dedication, as well as my will to win.”

Asked about his new Club, Antunes commented that  he hopes to instil his qualities in the team, who deserves to win every year. "I’m coming here with that will, and I’m going to bring it to every game. I want to win trophies here.”

The one-time Malaga CF player believes that adapting will not be a problem, especially with the help of some familiar faces in Sporting CP's squad.

“Neto has been a close friend of mine for many years. He is going to be a big help for me to adapt quickly. With his help, and that of other players whom I know from other leagues, I think that my integration into the group will be easy. I know that there is a very humble group here, and that’s what we need to achieve great things for this Club: humility and hard work”

Curiously, like fellow new signing Pedro Porro, Antunes has a tattoo of a lion on his arm.