Former FC Porto player departs Arouca and joins Sporting de Gijón, confirmed by relevant authorities.
In the world of Portuguese football, the 2025/26 I Liga season has kicked off with a flurry of activity, and one of the most notable moves involves Senegalese international Mamadou Loum. Despite his transfer to Real Sporting, Loum was an unused substitute in the first round of the season for his former club, FC Arouca, as they secured a 3-1 victory over AVS.
The match, played on Saturday as a home game for FC Arouca in the Aveiro district, saw Loum's teammates clinch the win before he was substituted onto the pitch. The score at the time was 3-0 in favour of FC Arouca, a result that did not affect the final standings of the first round.
Prior to his move to Real Sporting, Loum had a successful stint with FC Arouca, having also played for FC Porto, Sporting de Braga, Moreirense, and previously returned to the club following a loan spell. His departure from FC Arouca has been amicable, with the club expressing gratitude for his commitment and dedication during his time there.
The terms of the transfer agreement between FC Arouca and Real Sporting are yet to be disclosed, and it remains unclear whether Loum's move to the new club is a permanent or temporary one. Nevertheless, the transfer does not appear to have affected Loum's participation in the first round of the 2025/26 I Liga.
Loum's departure from FC Arouca leaves a void in the team's defence, but his impact on the pitch during his time with the club cannot be understated. His departure has paved the way for a young centre-back, Diogo Monteiro, who recently joined FC Arouca from Leeds United.
Monteiro's transfer to FC Arouca provides him with a path to regular top-level play, enhances Arouca’s defensive depth, and includes a financial mechanism allowing Leeds United to share in any significant future transfer value. Monteiro's arrival strengthens the centre-back position with a young player who has been highly rated previously.
As Loum embarks on a new chapter of his career with Real Sporting, FC Arouca can be confident in the knowledge that they have a talented defender in Monteiro to help carry on their defensive prowess. With the 2025/26 I Liga season well underway, both clubs will be eager to see how their respective transfers will impact their fortunes on the pitch.
The transfer of Mamadou Loum from FC Arouca to Real Sporting has marked a significant shift in the Portuguese football scene, as it coincides with the arrival of Diogo Monteiro at FC Arouca from Leeds United. Playing in the European leagues, Loum's departure from FC Arouca leaves a void in the team's defence, but his impressive track record, having played for FC Porto, Sporting de Braga, Moreirense, and returning to FC Arouca after a loan spell, ensures his impact will be felt in the Laliga as he transitions to his new club. Monitero's move to FC Arouca paves the way for regular top-level play and strengthens their defence, setting the stage for an intriguing clash between the two clubs in the 2025/26 I Liga as both teams seek success in the football arena.
