ED TO THE TOP
I’m related to Brazil legend Zico… now I’m making my own way at top European club and Man Utd even came calling
He could be the next great to come through the Sporting academy
TOP clubs from around Europe are in the battle to sign wonderkid Eduardo Quaresma.
The centre-back is a distant relative of Brazil legend Zico.
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Zico, 70, is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in history.
He earned 71 Brazil caps and was likened to Pele.
And now Quaresma is trying to follow in his footsteps and already has several big clubs chasing his signature.
Manchester United, Chelsea, Juventus and Inter Milan have all previously been linked with the centre-back.
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Quaresma, 21, came through the ranks at Sporting Lisbon.
The club's academy has a reputation for nurturing top talents after bringing through the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Figo.
After making his debut at the age of 18, Quaresma was then loaned out to Portuguese side Tondela and then he had a spell with Bundesliga outfit Hoffenheim last season.
He has now returned to Sporting and is a mainstay in the side, having played 25 times for the club.
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However, unlike his famous relative Zico, the defender instead represents Portugal and not Brazil.
He is still waiting for his first senior call-up, but he is a regular for their Under-21s.
Zico has been asked about his connection to Quaresma, he : "It is true that I have a Portuguese family, but I was not aware of this connection with the boy.
"I hope the boy is very successful, that he finds his place at the club, that he can make his dreams come true.
"I sincerely hope that Eduardo brings much glory to Sporting and achieves success in his career. That’s what’s important.
"It is also important that, regardless of your surnames, you continue to work.
"The important thing is that he continues to dedicate himself and fight for his space, that he plays the football he knows."
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