The coach reflects on another victory in Liga Portugal

Rúben Amorim was pleased with the victory for Sporting CP over FC Arouca and explained that the opening goal had been key to the 2-0 triumph.

“What changed from the first to the second half was that we scored on the first move after the break, and that loosened up the players. We started the game well and if Pablo [Sarabia]'s goal had counted, then the game would have been different. After that move, we rushed things a bit. In the second match we scored right away, and then we had more space, the energy changed and it ended up being natural,” he began by saying.

“The changes that I made had nothing to do with the game against Manchester City, but rather with this game and the next one in the league in mind. Our priority is the Liga Portugal and the Taça de Portugal."

He added that the game in Manchester will be important, above all for the growth of the team.

“It's another opportunity to grow. This tie is practically over, but we want to come back next year. We are outsiders in the Champions League, but we are a big club and we will do our best. The tie is over, but the game is not.”

With his sights set on the future, Amorim also spoke about Dário Essugo, who became the youngest Sporting CP player to make a start in the league.

“He is a 16-year-old boy, he has very good characteristics and will get even better. He has a lot to work on and it's another sign that this is our project. Our central midfielders were injured and he came into the game having been training very well."