Sporting CP prepares Moncef Zekri for first-team integration

Moncef Zekri, the 18-year-old Moroccan left-back signed from Mechelen for three million euros, is working to integrate into the Sporting CP first team under manager Rui Borges. While he has not yet debuted for the senior squad, Zekri has traveled with the team to Braga and Lens to familiarize himself with the group's routines.

To regain competitive rhythm and physical conditioning, Zekri has been playing for the B team, including a 45-minute appearance against Vizela in Liga 2. The club views him as a potential long-term alternative to Maxi Araújo on the left flank. An official debut for the main squad may occur as early as the Allianz Cup match against Marítimo on the 27th, depending on his continued progression.