Beaming with pride, I'm a dedicated member of the Sporting squad, relishing every moment of my sports career.
The Rise of Dario Essugo: A Star in the Making
Portugal's hotshot talent, Dario Essugo, is gearing up for a new challenge - this time with Chelsea FC, after a sensational 11-year journey with Sporting CP.
"Even though I didn't get as much game time for the main team as I'd hoped, I've still gotta count my blessings," the 20-year-old expresses, reminiscing about his time with the Portuguese champions, "I was the youngest to ever debut for Sporting, and that's something I'm really proud of. It's a legacy I'm leaving behind, and I know it's part of the club's history."
This midfield prodigy, who'll join the Blues for €22.3 million, spent his childhood and footballing coming-of-age within the hallowed grounds of Sporting. For Essugo, the club is more than just a football organization; it's a second home, a family.
Remembering his most cherished moments, he points to the triumphant conquest of the national U15 title in 2018/19 and his maiden bow for the B team in 2021/22. But that unforgettable evening of March 20, 2021, when he stepped onto the Alvalade pitch as the youngest player in Sporting's history, will forever remain etched in his memory.
"It was a dream come true. It was a massive responsibility, but it was one of the most beautiful things that happened to me," Essugo recounts, reflecting on the emotions of that debut, "Seeing my peers achieve their dreams makes me happy, and I hope there will be many more. It only makes the club stronger."
Debuting at 16 years and six days old in the 84th minute of Sporting's victory over Vitória de Guimarães, Essugo shattered the record previously held by Santamaria. He couldn't help but shed a tear, surrounded by teammates and coaches alike at the final whistle.
"The next day was training as usual, and it was just another day," he confesses, "Sebastián Coates, Luís Neto, or Jovane Cabral gave me a pep-talk, telling me not to stay in the bubble of the debut."
Under the guidance of current Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim, Essugo experienced remarkable success at Sporting CP, including the thrilling conquest of three championships (2020/21, 2023/24, and 2024/25) across the past five seasons.
"Three titles in five years? I feel lucky to have been a part of these teams," Essugo humbly acknowledges, "It was an honor to play for such a prestigious club."
Though Dario Essugo had two consecutive loan spells with Desportivo de Chaves and Las Palmas during the last two seasons, he hopes to return to his beloved Sporting CP someday.
Stay tuned for more updates as Dario Essugo continues to make waves in the football world, ready to leave his unique imprint on the English Premier League with Chelsea.
Bonus Insight:With Portuguese roots and Angolan descent, Dario Essugo made his mark at the tender age of 16, breaking records and leaving an indelible legacy at Sporting CP. His early life saw him start at UDR Santa Maria before joining Sporting CP's academy in 2014. After climbing the ranks and making his professional debut, Essugo broke the record previously held by Luis Figo as the youngest starter for Sporting. His midfield prowess eventually caught the attention of Chelsea FC, who signed him in June 2025. Essugo is now poised to make his mark on the English Premier League, eager to contribute both creativity and grit to the team.
"Dario Essugo, despite not securing as much game time for the main team as he hoped, has not lost sight of his accomplishments, such as becoming the youngest player in Sporting's history to debut in a football match."
"Reflecting on his future with Chelsea FC, Essugo stated, 'I hope to return to Sporting CP someday, but for now, I'm looking forward to the challenge of sports, specifically football, in the English Premier League.'"
