“A genuine lion.” These were the parting words from Sporting de Portugal to Erick Mendonça before he moved to Barcelona in the summer of 2023. Almost a year later, they reunite, this time as adversaries. Erick, donning the Barça jersey, will confront his former team in the Champions League semifinals. The Final Four is shadowed by controversy over its location in Yerevan, Armenia, a decision opposed vehemently by the clubs who find it distant from Spain and Portugal.
However, amidst the uproar, there are significant motivations: Erick’s reunion with Sporting de Portugal and Ferrao’s last hurrah in a Barça shirt after a decade. Erick’s transfer to Barça last July, a significant move for the Catalan club, marked the end of his five-season stint with Sporting de Portugal, where he secured every conceivable title, including two Champions Leagues, three leagues, and a total of 16 trophies. Internationally, he tasted success with the Portuguese team, clinching both the World Cup and European Championship.
Yet, life’s journey takes unexpected turns. In his debut season with Barça, he finds himself facing the club where he achieved so much in the Champions League semifinals. “I try to detach emotionally from facing Sporting and treat it like any other game. I’m at Barça now, and my aim is to win everything,”. He also noted the team’s peak form, remarking, “All my teammates seem to be in their prime. It’s the first time we’ve had so many players available since preseason.”
Key Player
With key players like Ferrao, Pito, Sergio Lozano, and Adolfo returning from injuries, Barça now has a formidable lineup. Erick, now able to play in his preferred position as a closer, initially filled in on the wing due to his teammates’ injuries. Despite the challenges, Erick has risen to become one of the world’s best futsal players, overcoming early adversity.
His journey is not unlike Ferrao’s, who announced his departure from Barça after a decade-long tenure. Battling a severe Achilles tendon injury that sidelined him for eight months, Ferrao’s return two weeks ago, marked by a goal against Betis, signals his readiness for the Champions League Final Four. “I’m not at full strength yet, after many months away. But the chance to win another Champions League in my final season here is special. I’ll give it my all,” remarked the Brazilian, who aims to secure his third European Cup with Barça before bidding farewell.
Erick acknowledges Ferrao’s significance, stating, “Ferrao’s reputation precedes him.” Grateful for having a player of Ferrao’s caliber during this crucial phase, Erick emphasizes his teammate’s ability to relieve pressure and retain possession. As Ferrao aims to conclude his illustrious tenure with Barça on a high note, both he and Erick epitomize resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
