SC Braga Squad 2024/25: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for SC Braga, as the club continues to solidify its reputation as one of Portugal’s most competitive and ambitious teams. Known for their dynamic style of play and ability to nurture talent, Braga has assembled a squad brimming with quality, experience, and youthful exuberance. This season’s roster reflects a blend of homegrown stars, shrewd signings, and seasoned professionals, all aiming to challenge for domestic glory and make an impact in European competitions. Below, we delve into the squad, breaking it down by position and providing an in-depth analysis of each player.
Goalkeepers
- Matheus (Matheus Lima Magalhães)
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Cruzeiro, Atlético Mineiro
- Transfer Fee: €6 million (2020)
Matheus has been a cornerstone of Braga’s defense since his arrival in 2020. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and commanding presence in the box, the Brazilian shot-stopper has consistently delivered match-winning performances. Standing at 6’3”, he excels in one-on-one situations and is a reliable penalty saver. His distribution has improved significantly, making him a modern goalkeeper capable of initiating attacks. Matheus’ leadership qualities have also seen him wear the captain’s armband on several occasions.
- Lucas França
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Fluminense (youth), Braga B
- Transfer Fee: Free (youth signing)
A product of Braga’s youth academy, Lucas França has emerged as a promising understudy to Matheus. At just 22 years old, he has already showcased his potential in domestic cup matches and Europa League fixtures. His agility and quick decision-making make him a reliable option between the sticks. França’s ability to read the game and communicate effectively with his defenders has earned him praise from the coaching staff.
- Tiago Sá
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Porto (youth), Famalicão
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2023)
Tiago Sá joined Braga as a backup option but has proven his worth whenever called upon. The 26-year-old Portuguese goalkeeper is known for his calm demeanor under pressure and excellent shot-stopping ability. His experience in Primeira Liga makes him a dependable choice, and he provides healthy competition for the starting spot.
Defenders
- Vítor Tormena
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Santos, Chaves
- Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (2019)
Tormena is the defensive linchpin of SC Braga. The Brazilian center-back combines physicality with tactical intelligence, making him a nightmare for opposing forwards. His aerial prowess and ability to play out from the back have been instrumental in Braga’s build-up play. Tormena’s leadership and consistency have made him a fan favorite and a key figure in the squad.
- David Carmo
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Porto, Braga (youth)
- Transfer Fee: €20 million (2022, Porto), returned on loan (2024)
After a stint at Porto, David Carmo returned to Braga on loan, much to the delight of the fans. The towering 6’5” defender is a dominant force in the air and excels in intercepting opposition attacks. His composure on the ball and ability to play long diagonal passes add an extra dimension to Braga’s defense. At 24, Carmo is still improving and has the potential to become one of Europe’s elite defenders.
- Fabiano Silva
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Internacional, Braga B
- Transfer Fee: €1 million (2021)
Fabiano Silva is a versatile defender capable of playing both center-back and left-back. His tenacity and work rate make him a valuable asset in high-pressure situations. Silva’s ability to read the game and make crucial tackles has earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup. Despite being 28, he remains one of the fittest players in the squad.
- Hernâni Infande
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Braga (youth), Vizela (loan)
- Transfer Fee: Free (youth signing)
A product of Braga’s renowned youth academy, Hernâni Infande has quickly risen through the ranks to become a first-team regular. The 21-year-old right-back is known for his blistering pace and attacking contributions. His defensive awareness has improved significantly, making him a well-rounded full-back. Infande’s potential has attracted interest from top European clubs, but Braga is keen to retain him.
- Bruno Rodrigues
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Sporting CP (youth), Estoril
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2023)
Bruno Rodrigues joined Braga last season and has quickly established himself as a reliable left-back. His overlapping runs and pinpoint crosses have added a new dimension to Braga’s attack. Defensively, he is disciplined and rarely caught out of position. At 25, Rodrigues is entering his prime and is expected to play a key role this season.
- Sikou Niakaté
- Nationality: Malian
- Former Clubs: Guingamp, Braga B
- Transfer Fee: €3 million (2022)
Niakaté is a physically imposing center-back who excels in aerial duels and tackles. The Malian international has adapted well to Portuguese football and has become a mainstay in Braga’s defense. His ability to play as a defensive midfielder in emergencies adds to his value. Niakaté’s leadership and experience make him a crucial part of the squad.
Midfielders
- Al Musrati
- Nationality: Libyan
- Former Clubs: Rio Ave, Vitória Guimarães
- Transfer Fee: €4 million (2021)
Al Musrati is the heartbeat of Braga’s midfield. The Libyan international is a box-to-box midfielder known for his tireless work rate and ability to break up play. His passing range and vision make him a key orchestrator in Braga’s build-up play. Musrati’s leadership and consistency have made him one of the first names on the team sheet.
- André Horta
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Benfica, Los Angeles FC
- Transfer Fee: €3.5 million (2020)
André Horta is a creative force in Braga’s midfield. The Portuguese playmaker is known for his dribbling skills, precise passing, and ability to score from distance. Horta’s versatility allows him to play in multiple positions, including central midfield and the wing. His experience in Major League Soccer has added a unique dimension to his game.
- Vítor Carvalho
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Braga (youth), Famalicão (loan)
- Transfer Fee: Free (youth signing)
Vítor Carvalho is one of Braga’s most promising young talents. The 20-year-old central midfielder is known for his composure on the ball and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. Carvalho’s vision and passing accuracy have drawn comparisons to some of Portugal’s midfield greats. He is expected to play a more prominent role this season.
- Rodrigo Zalazar
- Nationality: Uruguayan
- Former Clubs: Schalke 04, Eintracht Frankfurt
- Transfer Fee: €5 million (2023)
Zalazar joined Braga last season and has quickly become a fan favorite. The Uruguayan midfielder is known for his technical ability, creativity, and eye for goal. His versatility allows him to play as an attacking midfielder or on the wing. Zalazar’s flair and work ethic make him a key player in Braga’s attacking setup.
- Gorby
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Fluminense, Braga B
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2022)
Gorby is a dynamic midfielder known for his energy and ability to drive forward with the ball. The Brazilian has a knack for scoring crucial goals and is a constant threat from set-pieces. His defensive contributions have also improved, making him a well-rounded midfielder.
Forwards
- Abel Ruiz
- Nationality: Spanish
- Former Clubs: Barcelona B, Braga B
- Transfer Fee: €8 million (2020)
Abel Ruiz is Braga’s talismanic striker. The Spanish forward is known for his clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and ability to link play. Ruiz’s versatility allows him to play as a lone striker or in a supporting role. His leadership and experience make him a key figure in Braga’s attack.
- Simon Banza
- Nationality: Congolese
- Former Clubs: Lens, Famalicão
- Transfer Fee: €3 million (2022)
Banza is a powerful striker known for his physicality and aerial ability. The Congolese international has a keen eye for goal and is a constant threat in the box. His hold-up play and ability to bring teammates into the game make him a valuable asset.
- Roger Fernandes
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Braga (youth)
- Transfer Fee: Free (youth signing)
Roger Fernandes is one of Braga’s brightest prospects. The 19-year-old winger is known for his blistering pace, dribbling skills, and ability to score spectacular goals. Fernandes’ potential has attracted interest from top clubs, but Braga is determined to nurture his talent.
- Iuri Medeiros
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Sporting CP, Legia Warsaw
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2021)
Medeiros is a versatile forward capable of playing on the wing or as a second striker. The Portuguese attacker is known for his creativity, vision, and ability to score from distance. His experience and technical ability make him a key player in Braga’s attack.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 SC Braga squad is a perfect blend of youth and experience, with each player bringing unique qualities to the table. From the commanding presence of Matheus in goal to the attacking flair of Abel Ruiz and Roger Fernandes, this team has the potential to achieve great things. With a mix of homegrown talent and shrewd signings, Braga is well-equipped to challenge for silverware and make a mark on the European stage. The future looks bright for Os Arcebispos, and fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead.