Ricardo Filipe da Silva Braga, known as Ricardinho, is set to be the major acquisition for Ecocity Genzano in European futsal. ‘The Magic’ has officially committed to the Roman team, fulfilling the long-held ambition of President Vincenzo Tuccillo, who has been pursuing the Portuguese star since December 2023. Ricardinho, who will soon turn 39 (born in Valbom on September 3, 1985), is determined to secure the ‘tricolore’ in Italy. Marking the sixth country where he has been a league champion during his illustrious career.
After a successful stint at Riga in Latvia, Ricardinho considered various offers but was particularly drawn to the project presented by Ecocity Genzano. On July 20, President Tuccillo, along with general manager Serena Pichi and sporting director Francesco D’ario, traveled to Porto to meet Ricardinho at the Pestana Palacio do Freixo hotel. The Italian manager shared his enthusiasm about the meeting on social media. Describing Ricardinho as not only the greatest futsal player but also a humble and exemplary person. Tuccillo noted that Ricardinho was more interested in the project than the money and was eager to win, expressing optimism about the player’s potential move.
This optimism has now materialized, as Ricardinho has agreed to join Ecocity Genzano. In an August 20 podcast with the Portuguese Football Federation, Ricardinho revealed that his future was “90 percent decided” and that he was ready to challenge himself in a new league. Aiming to win yet another title.
Ricardinho Career
Ricardinho’s impressive career includes 15 league titles across several countries. 5 in Portugal with Benfica, 2 in Japan with Nagoya Oceans, 6 in Spain with Movistar Inter, 1 in France with ACCS in Paris, and 1 in Latvia. The only championships that eluded him were in the Russian Super League with CSKA Moscow and the Indonesian league with Pendekar United.
President Tuccillo has been fueling excitement among Ecocity Genzano’s fans, posting Portuguese flags on social media in anticipation of Ricardinho’s arrival. The player himself has confirmed on X and Instagram that he will officially announce his new team on Sunday, August 25. Ricardinho’s move to Italy’s Serie A is expected to bring significant media attention to the league. Which has been losing prominence in Europe, similar to the Italian national team, which failed to qualify for the World Cup in Uzbekistan.
At Ecocity Genzano, Ricardinho will be coached by David Marín. Who returns to Italy after a successful period in Kuwait and previous stints with Napoli and Luparense. Where he won a League and a Super Cup in 2017. The Roman team has also signed Argentine defender Pablo Taborda, a five-time Scudetto winner, along with Brazilian left-winger Nem, Micheletto (from Fortitudo Pomezia), Matías Lara (from Roma C5), and Ricardo Siddi (from Leonardo).
