Hey guys! Let's dive into the Sporting Lisbon 2017 squad, a team that had some serious talent and a memorable season. We're going to break down the key players, the tactics they used, and some of the highlights from that year. Whether you're a die-hard Sporting fan or just curious about football history, this is the place to be. So, buckle up and let's get started!

The Lineup: Key Players of Sporting Lisbon 2017

When we talk about the Sporting Lisbon 2017 squad, several names immediately come to mind. This team wasn't just a collection of players; it was a well-oiled machine with each member playing a crucial role. Understanding who these key players were and what they brought to the team is essential to appreciating their performance that season. Let’s break down some of the stars that shone brightly for Sporting Lisbon in 2017.

Goal Keepers

At the back, Rui Patrício was the undisputed number one. A seasoned veteran and a fantastic shot-stopper, Patrício's presence in goal provided a sense of security and confidence to the entire team. His ability to make crucial saves at critical moments often proved to be the difference between a win and a draw. Patrício wasn't just a great goalkeeper; he was a leader on the pitch, organizing the defense and ensuring everyone was on the same page. His experience and composure were invaluable assets to Sporting Lisbon.

The backup goalkeeper, Azbe Jug, provided reliable cover whenever called upon. While he didn't feature as regularly as Patrício, Jug's professionalism and dedication in training helped maintain a competitive environment within the squad. Having a dependable second-choice goalkeeper is crucial for any team aiming for success, and Jug certainly fit the bill.

Defenders

The defense was anchored by players like Sebastián Coates and Jérémy Mathieu. Coates, with his towering presence and aerial ability, was a rock at the heart of the defense. His partnership with Mathieu, a seasoned campaigner with a wealth of experience from his time at Barcelona, provided a solid foundation for the team. Mathieu's ability to read the game and make timely interceptions was crucial in thwarting opposition attacks. Together, they formed a formidable defensive duo that was difficult to break down.

On the flanks, Cristiano Piccini and Fábio Coentrão brought both defensive solidity and attacking impetus. Piccini, with his energy and tireless running, patrolled the right flank effectively, while Coentrão, a Champions League winner with Real Madrid, added a touch of class and experience on the left. Their overlapping runs and ability to deliver quality crosses into the box added another dimension to Sporting's attack. Both full-backs were instrumental in providing balance to the team, contributing equally to defense and offense.

Midfielders

The midfield was where Sporting Lisbon truly shone, boasting a blend of creativity, energy, and steel. William Carvalho, a midfield powerhouse, was the linchpin of the team. His ability to break up opposition attacks, shield the defense, and dictate play from deep made him an indispensable member of the squad. Carvalho's physical presence and tactical awareness allowed the more creative players in midfield to flourish.

Alongside Carvalho, players like Adrien Silva and Bruno Fernandes provided the creative spark. Silva, the team captain, was a dynamic midfielder with an eye for a pass and the ability to score crucial goals. His leadership on and off the pitch was vital to the team's success. Fernandes, who would later go on to become a superstar at Manchester United, was just beginning to showcase his immense talent. His vision, passing range, and goal-scoring ability from midfield made him a constant threat to the opposition.

Forwards

In attack, Sporting Lisbon had a number of exciting players who were capable of changing a game in an instant. Bas Dost, the towering Dutch striker, was the team's main goal threat. His clinical finishing and ability in the air made him a nightmare for defenders. Dost's goals were crucial in securing vital points for Sporting throughout the season.

Supporting Dost in attack were players like Gelson Martins and Marcos Acuña. Martins, with his blistering pace and trickery, was a constant threat down the right wing. His ability to beat defenders and deliver dangerous crosses into the box made him a key attacking outlet. Acuña, on the left, brought a combination of skill and work rate, contributing both goals and assists. Their pace and creativity added a dynamic edge to Sporting's attack, making them a difficult team to defend against.

Tactical Approach: How Sporting Lisbon Played in 2017

The tactical approach of Sporting Lisbon in 2017 was a fascinating blend of defensive solidity and attacking flair. The manager, Jorge Jesus, was known for his meticulous planning and tactical acumen, and he crafted a team that was both resilient and exciting to watch. Understanding the tactics they employed gives us a deeper appreciation for how they performed so well that season. Let's break down the key elements of their game plan.

Formation

Sporting Lisbon typically played in a 4-2-3-1 formation. This setup provided a solid defensive base with two holding midfielders while allowing the attacking players the freedom to express themselves. The formation was flexible, allowing them to switch to a 4-3-3 when needed, providing tactical versatility depending on the opponent and the game situation. This adaptability was a key strength of the team, making them difficult to predict and counter.

The two holding midfielders, usually William Carvalho and Adrien Silva, were crucial in shielding the defense and dictating the tempo of the game. Their disciplined positioning and ability to win the ball back allowed the more creative players to focus on attacking. The four defenders provided a solid backline, with the full-backs contributing both defensively and offensively. The single striker, Bas Dost, led the line, supported by three attacking midfielders who provided creativity and goal-scoring threat.

Defensive Strategy

Defensively, Sporting Lisbon were well-organized and difficult to break down. They pressed aggressively in midfield, aiming to win the ball back quickly and prevent the opposition from building attacks. The central defensive partnership of Sebastián Coates and Jérémy Mathieu was formidable, providing a strong barrier against opposition forwards. Their aerial prowess and ability to read the game were crucial in keeping clean sheets.

The full-backs, Cristiano Piccini and Fábio Coentrão, provided additional defensive cover, tracking back diligently and preventing crosses from reaching the box. The defensive discipline of the entire team was a hallmark of their play, making them a tough team to score against. This defensive solidity was the foundation upon which their attacking play was built.

Attacking Style

In attack, Sporting Lisbon were dynamic and creative, with a focus on quick transitions and incisive passing. The attacking midfielders, including Bruno Fernandes and Gelson Martins, were given the freedom to roam and find space, creating opportunities for themselves and others. Their pace, skill, and vision added a spark to Sporting's attacking play.

The wide players, Martins and Marcos Acuña, provided width and pace, stretching the opposition defense and delivering crosses into the box. Bas Dost, with his excellent movement and finishing ability, was the focal point of the attack, often the target for crosses and through balls. The midfielders also contributed to the attack, with Bruno Fernandes in particular possessing a knack for scoring spectacular goals from distance.

The emphasis was on quick, flowing football, with players encouraged to make forward runs and support the attack. This attacking style made Sporting Lisbon an exciting team to watch, capable of scoring goals from a variety of situations. Their ability to transition quickly from defense to attack was a key feature of their game.

Set Pieces

Set pieces were also an important part of Sporting Lisbon's tactical approach. With tall and physical players like Coates and Dost in the team, they were always a threat from corners and free-kicks. Bruno Fernandes' excellent delivery from set-pieces added another dimension to their attacking play. They practiced set-piece routines meticulously, ensuring that they were well-prepared to capitalize on these opportunities.

Defensively, they were well-organized at defending set-pieces, with players assigned specific roles and responsibilities. This attention to detail in both attacking and defending set-pieces highlighted the tactical sophistication of the team under Jorge Jesus.

Season Highlights: Memorable Moments from 2017

The 2017 season was filled with memorable moments for Sporting Lisbon, from thrilling victories to standout individual performances. These highlights not only defined their season but also cemented their place in the hearts of the fans. Let's relive some of the most exciting moments from that year.

Key Victories

One of the standout victories of the season was their win against arch-rivals Benfica. The atmosphere at the Estádio José Alvalade was electric as Sporting Lisbon put in a dominant performance, securing a memorable victory. This win was not just about the three points; it was a statement of intent, showing that Sporting was a force to be reckoned with. The fans celebrated long into the night, savoring the victory over their biggest rivals.

Another significant victory came against FC Porto, another one of Portugal's traditional powerhouses. This hard-fought win showcased Sporting's resilience and determination, as they battled to secure a crucial three points. The victory against Porto demonstrated Sporting's ability to compete with the best teams in the league.

In addition to these high-profile wins, there were numerous other victories throughout the season that highlighted Sporting's consistency and quality. These wins ensured they remained competitive in the league and in cup competitions.

Standout Performances

Individually, several players had outstanding seasons. Bruno Fernandes emerged as a star, his performances in midfield earning him widespread acclaim. His goals, assists, and overall contribution to the team were pivotal to Sporting's success. Fernandes' performances caught the eye of scouts from across Europe, setting the stage for his future move to Manchester United.

Bas Dost's goal-scoring exploits were also a major highlight. The Dutch striker consistently found the back of the net, leading the line with aplomb and proving to be a constant threat to opposition defenses. His clinical finishing and aerial ability made him one of the most feared strikers in the league.

William Carvalho's commanding performances in midfield were another standout aspect of the season. His ability to break up play, shield the defense, and dictate the tempo of the game made him an invaluable member of the squad. Carvalho's presence in midfield provided a solid foundation for the team's attacking play.

Cup Run

Sporting Lisbon also had a memorable run in the Portuguese Cup, reaching the final and giving the fans plenty to cheer about. Their cup run was characterized by exciting matches and dramatic finishes, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure. Although they didn't ultimately lift the trophy, their cup run was a testament to their competitive spirit and determination.

The journey to the final included impressive victories against tough opponents, highlighting Sporting's depth and quality. The cup run provided fans with some unforgettable moments and added an extra layer of excitement to the season.

European Campaign

Sporting Lisbon's European campaign also provided some notable moments. They competed strongly in the Europa League, showcasing their ability to compete on the continental stage. Their performances in Europe added to the excitement of the season and demonstrated the club's ambition to compete at the highest level.

Facing some of Europe's top teams, Sporting Lisbon held their own, playing attractive football and giving their fans something to be proud of. Their European campaign added valuable experience to the squad and helped to raise the club's profile.

Where Are They Now? Tracking the Sporting Lisbon 2017 Squad

It's always interesting to see where the players from a successful squad end up after a few years. The Sporting Lisbon 2017 squad was no exception, with many of its members moving on to bigger clubs and achieving further success. Let's take a look at what some of the key players are doing now.

Key Departures

Bruno Fernandes made a high-profile move to Manchester United in January 2020 and has since become one of the Premier League's top players. His impact at United has been immense, with his goals, assists, and leadership making him a fan favorite. Fernandes' success in the Premier League is a testament to his talent and the quality of the Sporting Lisbon academy.

William Carvalho joined Real Betis in the summer of 2018 and has become a key player for the Spanish side. His consistent performances in La Liga have solidified his reputation as one of the top defensive midfielders in Europe. Carvalho's move to Betis allowed him to showcase his talent in a different league and continue his development.

Rui Patrício moved to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2018 and was a mainstay in the Wolves' goal for several seasons before moving to AS Roma. His shot-stopping ability and experience have made him a valuable asset to both clubs. Patrício's move to the Premier League and Serie A highlighted his status as one of Portugal's top goalkeepers.

Current Status of Other Players

Some players have remained with Sporting Lisbon, continuing to contribute to the team's success. Their loyalty and commitment to the club have been appreciated by the fans.

Other players have moved on to different clubs across Europe, continuing their careers in various leagues. Their experiences at Sporting Lisbon have undoubtedly shaped their careers and helped them to develop as players.

Many of the players from the 2017 squad have gone on to achieve great things, both individually and collectively. Their success is a reflection of the quality of the team and the coaching they received at Sporting Lisbon.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Sporting Lisbon 2017

The Sporting Lisbon 2017 squad was a special group of players who created lasting memories for the club's fans. Their performances on the pitch, their tactical approach, and the individual brilliance of key players made them a team to remember. The legacy of that squad lives on, with many of its members continuing to shine in different leagues across Europe.

Their season was a testament to the power of teamwork, tactical planning, and individual talent. The memories created during that season will be cherished by Sporting Lisbon fans for years to come. The 2017 squad set a high standard for future teams and demonstrated the potential of Sporting Lisbon as a force in Portuguese and European football.

So, there you have it, guys! A deep dive into the Sporting Lisbon 2017 squad. Hopefully, you enjoyed this trip down memory lane as much as I did. This team had a unique blend of talent and tactical brilliance, making them a squad that will be remembered fondly by fans for years to come. Keep the passion for football alive, and who knows, maybe we'll see another Sporting Lisbon squad achieve similar heights in the future! Cheers!