Estoril Praia Squad 2024/25
Estoril Praia, a club with a rich history in Portuguese football, continues to build a competitive squad for the 2024/25 season. Known for their ability to nurture talent and compete in the Primeira Liga, the Canarinhos have assembled a balanced team featuring a mix of experienced veterans and promising young stars. This season’s squad reflects a strategic blend of domestic talent and international flair, aiming to secure a strong league position and potentially challenge for silverware. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the Estoril Praia squad for the 2024/25 campaign, categorized by position and accompanied by detailed player profiles.
Goalkeepers
- Daniel Figueira
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Sporting CP B, CD Tondela
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Daniel Figueira, a reliable shot-stopper, joined Estoril Praia in 2023 after a solid spell with CD Tondela. Known for his quick reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Figueira has become a cornerstone of the team’s defense. Standing at 1.88 meters, he excels in one-on-one situations and has a knack for saving penalties. His distribution skills have also improved significantly, making him a modern goalkeeper capable of initiating attacks from the back.
- Pedro Silva
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: FC Porto B, GD Chaves
- Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2024)
Pedro Silva, a product of FC Porto’s famed academy, arrived at Estoril Praia in the summer of 2024. Despite his young age, Silva has already showcased immense potential, particularly in his ability to read the game and organize the defense. His agility and composure under pressure make him a valuable asset, and he is seen as a long-term investment for the club.
- Tiago Martins
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: SC Braga B, FC Vizela
- Transfer Fee: Loan (2024)
Tiago Martins, on loan from SC Braga, provides depth to the goalkeeping department. A tall and athletic keeper, Martins is known for his aerial prowess and ability to dominate the penalty area. While still developing, his performances in training have impressed the coaching staff, and he is expected to push for more playing time as the season progresses.
Defenders
- Joãozinho
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Fluminense, FC Famalicão
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2023)
Joãozinho, a versatile left-back, has been a revelation since joining Estoril Praia. Known for his attacking flair and defensive solidity, the Brazilian is equally adept at delivering pinpoint crosses and making crucial tackles. His pace and stamina allow him to contribute effectively in both halves of the pitch, making him a key player in the team’s tactical setup.
- Bernardo Vital
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: SL Benfica B, CD Santa Clara
- Transfer Fee: €750,000 (2024)
Bernardo Vital, a central defender with a commanding presence, joined Estoril Praia in 2024. His ability to read the game and make timely interceptions has earned him praise from fans and pundits alike. Vital’s leadership qualities and aerial dominance make him a vital component of the backline, and he is expected to form a formidable partnership with his fellow defenders.
- Miguel Crespo
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: FC Porto B, Gil Vicente
- Transfer Fee: €1 million (2023)
Miguel Crespo, a right-back with a penchant for overlapping runs, has been a consistent performer for Estoril Praia. His defensive discipline and ability to contribute to the attack make him a well-rounded full-back. Crespo’s work rate and tactical intelligence have made him a fan favorite, and he is often tasked with marking the opposition’s most dangerous wingers.
- Rafik Guitane
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: Stade Rennais, CD Feirense
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Rafik Guitane, a versatile defender capable of playing both as a center-back and a defensive midfielder, joined Estoril Praia on a free transfer. His technical skills and ability to play out from the back align perfectly with the team’s philosophy. Guitane’s experience in European football adds depth and quality to the squad.
- Pedro Álvaro
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: SL Benfica B, FC Vizela
- Transfer Fee: Loan (2024)
Pedro Álvaro, on loan from SL Benfica, is a young center-back with immense potential. Known for his composure on the ball and ability to play under pressure, Álvaro has already shown glimpses of his talent. His physicality and tactical awareness make him a promising prospect for the future.
Midfielders
- João Gamboa
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: SL Benfica B, FC Arouca
- Transfer Fee: €800,000 (2023)
João Gamboa, a dynamic central midfielder, has been a standout performer for Estoril Praia. His ability to control the tempo of the game and break up opposition play makes him a crucial figure in the midfield. Gamboa’s vision and passing range allow him to dictate play, and he is often the link between defense and attack.
- André Franco
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: FC Porto B, GD Estoril Praia
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2024)
André Franco, a creative attacking midfielder, returned to Estoril Praia in 2024 after a successful spell abroad. Known for his dribbling skills and eye for goal, Franco is a constant threat in the final third. His ability to unlock defenses with incisive passes and his knack for scoring from distance make him a fan favorite.
- Chiquinho
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Wolverhampton Wanderers, GD Estoril Praia
- Transfer Fee: Loan (2024)
Chiquinho, on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers, brings Premier League experience to the Estoril Praia midfield. A versatile player capable of playing in multiple positions, Chiquinho’s energy and technical ability make him a valuable asset. His work rate and ability to press high up the pitch align perfectly with the team’s tactical approach.
- Francisco Geraldes
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Sporting CP, Rio Ave FC
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Francisco Geraldes, a technically gifted midfielder, joined Estoril Praia on a free transfer. Known for his close control and ability to retain possession under pressure, Geraldes adds creativity and composure to the midfield. His experience in the Primeira Liga makes him a reliable option in tight games.
- Alioune Ndour
- Nationality: Senegalese
- Former Clubs: Casa Sports, FC Vizela
- Transfer Fee: €600,000 (2024)
Alioune Ndour, a powerful box-to-box midfielder, joined Estoril Praia in 2024. His physicality and ability to cover ground quickly make him a key player in both defense and attack. Ndour’s energy and tenacity have already made him a fan favorite, and he is expected to play a pivotal role this season.
Forwards
- Cassiano
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Internacional, Al-Ittihad Kalba
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2023)
Cassiano, a prolific striker, has been a revelation since joining Estoril Praia. Known for his clinical finishing and aerial ability, the Brazilian has consistently found the back of the net. His movement off the ball and ability to hold up play make him a complete forward, and he is the focal point of the team’s attack.
- Rafael Camacho
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Liverpool, Sporting CP
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2024)
Rafael Camacho, a versatile forward capable of playing on either wing or as a central striker, joined Estoril Praia in 2024. His pace, dribbling skills, and eye for goal make him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Camacho’s experience at top clubs adds quality and depth to the attacking lineup.
- Tiago Gouveia
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: SL Benfica B, FC Famalicão
- Transfer Fee: Loan (2024)
Tiago Gouveia, on loan from SL Benfica, is a young winger with immense potential. Known for his speed and ability to take on defenders, Gouveia has already made an impact with his direct style of play. His performances have earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup, and he is seen as a future star.
- Yohan Tavares
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: FC Porto B, CD Nacional
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Yohan Tavares, a versatile forward capable of playing as a winger or a second striker, joined Estoril Praia on a free transfer. His technical skills and ability to create chances make him a valuable option in the final third. Tavares’ experience and versatility provide the team with additional attacking options.
- Rodrigo Martins
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: SC Braga B, FC Vizela
- Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2024)
Rodrigo Martins, a young and dynamic forward, joined Estoril Praia in 2024. Known for his work rate and ability to press high up the pitch, Martins has quickly adapted to the team’s style of play. His potential and determination make him an exciting prospect for the future.
Conclusion
The Estoril Praia squad for the 2024/25 season is a well-balanced mix of experience and youth, with a strong emphasis on technical ability and tactical discipline. The club’s strategic recruitment has addressed key areas, ensuring depth and quality across all positions. With a blend of domestic talent and international stars, Estoril Praia is poised to make a significant impact in the Primeira Liga and beyond. Fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with thrilling performances and potential silverware.