Ricardo Quaresma makes up with Porto and pledges future to Dragons

Winger forgives booing to sign extension for “club I love”

FC Porto’s Ricardo Quaresma has signed a contract extension with the two-time Portuguese champions keeping him with the club until 2011.

The Portuguese international’s current deal was to expire in 2009, but both parties felt it necessary to prolong their relationship for an additional two years.

Along with the signed deal, Porto have also announced that they now own 100% of the player’s sporting rights after purchasing the remaining 9% which was previously owned by the First Portuguese Football Players Fund.

The move comes amidst some turbulent times as Quaresma had publicly announced his displeasure with sections of the Porto crowd for being constantly whistled and jeered. Despite his frequent displays of individual brilliance, many fans are frustrated by what they see as over-elaboration on many occasions.

The winger’s displeasure culminated in the booing he was subjected to during the club’s 2-0 win over Desportivo das Aves in the Portuguese Cup this past weekend, immediately after which he suggested that he may be leaving the club at the end of the season.

Mutual admiration

But it now appears that all is rosy in the garden again as the player known as ‘Harry Potter’ in Portugal due to his magical footwork is standing firm over his decision to renew with the club.

“Clearly, I feel content with the renewal,” admitted Quaresma, “it’s a sign that there is admiration on both parts, not to mention the admiration I have for the club and the people with whom I work with. We renewed the contract as the president and all the people who are associated with this club wanted to renew.”

“I have always had the spirit to help the club and the team to win titles. I always give everything I’ve got. Everyone knows that FC Porto taught me a lot and allowed me to grow. At this moment I can say that I love FC Porto and I am very happy to be at the club during its most decisive moments.”

In other club news, Porto also announced that they purchased 16.7% more of the rights for three more of their players, Paulo Machado, Ivanildo and Vieririnha, all currently on loan to other Bwin Liga clubs, from the same fund that owed the remaining amount for Quaresma.


Related: Ricardo Quaresma PortGOAL profile