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Rise of Viana: Sporting’s Transformational Leadership

In a remarkably rapid transition back to the world of football, Viana took on the role of international relations director at Sporting, located in Lisbon, shortly after his appointment in 2018. His re-entry into the sport shortly evolved, as he was elevated to the position of sporting director just a few months later.

Initially, Viana faced challenges that required time to surmount. The club went through four different coaching changes, paralleled by ventures into the transfer market that did not yield the anticipated results, including notable missteps with players like Yannick Bolasie and Jesse Rodriguez. Nevertheless, Viana gradually found stability and a sense of direction.

Leonel Pontes, who managed Sporting in 2019 and currently serves as the technical director at Shanghai Shenhua, remarked on Viana’s growth during this period. “He has grown significantly because he found the right context to do that as a professional and simultaneously help improve the structure,” Pontes stated.

The seasons of 2018-19 and 2019-20 were particularly turbulent for the squad, as issues with team balance created a cycle of managerial instability. “Having four different coaches in a single season seems unusual to me, but ultimately the decision to bring in Amorim turned out to be highly beneficial,” Pontes added. This pivotal hiring not only marked a turning point in Sporting’s recent history but also for Viana himself.

Under the stewardship of Amorim, Sporting has resumed its status as a competitive force, securing multiple trophies and establishing a semblance of stability. The club has also become a noteworthy player in developing talent, evidenced by the sale of promising athletes such as Joao Palhinha, Matheus Nunes, Nuno Mendes, Porro, and Ugarte for substantial fees. Meanwhile, newer prospects like Goncalo Inacio, Ousmane Diomande, Morten Hjulmand, Geovany Quenda, and Viktor Gyokeres have emerged to fill those positions effectively, showcasing the synergy of the Amorim-Viana partnership.

This successful collaboration is rooted in a long-standing friendship, having previously played together for the Portuguese national team and for Braga. Their connection deepened in the later stages of their careers while playing in the Middle East, where they often found themselves meeting in Dubai. During this time, Amorim faced significant injury struggles and leaned on Viana for support.

Reflecting on their relationship, Viana highlighted, “Having one of my best friends working with me is fantastic, but it comes with its challenges.” He acknowledged the importance of mutual respect, emphasizing that they prioritize open communication—“whatever we have to say, we say; whatever we have to discuss, we discuss.” He expressed appreciation for the unique environment they have cultivated at Sporting, noting, “What we are all living at Sporting I was never able to experience as a footballer. Sometimes we look around and realize what we do doesn’t feel like work, but rather an enjoyable endeavor.”

As speculation mounts regarding Pep Guardiola’s contract situation with Manchester City and potential future uncertainties, many in Portugal are eagerly watching the landscape for the possibility of a sooner-than-anticipated reunion of Amorim and Viana.

Source
www.bbc.com