"This is only the beginning", says 16-year-old talent

Just days after turning 16 years old, and in the week that he signed a professional contract with the club, Dário Essugo made his senior debut for Sporting Clube de Portugal in the game against Vitória SC. The midfielder thus became the youngest player ever to appear for the club.

Essugo spoke to Sporting TV after the game, expressing his delight with the opportunity.

"It is an indescribable feeling and it is something I have always wanted. I have always dreamed of this moment", he said.

"To have achieved this and to be the youngest player in history to debut for Sporting CP is a source of pride for me. I can only thank everyone who made it possible: thank you very much".

The teenager joined Sporting CP in 2014/2015, and upon the culmination of a long-term goal, said that "It's different with the first team. This is another level, but my teammates supported me on and off the pitch, and that made me feel even more relaxed".

"This is only the beginning. Now I have to continue working to continue to achieve more individual and collective goals with this club. I just have to thank Sporting Clube de Portugal for giving me this chance".