Alisson Santos: "I left Sporting because I wasn't playing much"

In one of the more surprising moves of the winter transfer window, Napoli secured Alisson Santos on a €3.5 million loan deal, with an additional €16.5 million potentially heading to Sporting should the Italian club activate his permanent purchase clause. The winger recently spoke to the Italian newspaper 'La Repubblica', shedding light on his decision to make the switch. "I wasn't playing much at Sporting, but I was thrilled by this huge life and career opportunity. Being at Napoli is fantastic, it motivates me greatly. I'm giving my all to help the club, and it's a great honor to be part of such an important team," he stated. Just days prior, Santos had been instrumental in securing Sporting's direct qualification to the Champions League last 16, scoring the winning goal (3-2) against Athletic Bilbao.

The Brazilian, who had lived in Lisbon with his mother during his childhood, revealed that he harbored a dream of becoming a professional footballer from a young age. "Among my friends, I was one of the best. And reaching this level was my dream. I had a lot of fun and tried to improve every day. I worked hard and continue to do so. I know I need to work even harder and push myself to reach the top," he envisioned.

Alisson's goal celebration, mimicking a surfer, has become one of his signature moves. "I admire the agility with which they move on the water. Even though, at 23, I've never actually been on a surfboard," he confessed, also emphasizing that his idol, Neymar, is a major source of inspiration: "His dribbling is the most beautiful thing in football. There's nothing more exciting than a one-on-one situation."

His relationship with 'Partenopei' coach Antonio Conte is reportedly excellent. "He helped me a lot from day one. He explained how the team played and what I needed to do to perform my best. It was very important," he admitted, adding that playing at the club's stadium, the Diego Armando Maradona, gives him goosebumps. "It was incredible the first time I stepped onto the pitch here. Playing in this stadium is extraordinary, and I was truly happy," he concluded.

Alisson Santos, whose transfer cost Sporting €2.1 million from Brazilian club Vitória da Bahia, is expected to remain in Naples beyond the current season. All indications suggest that Napoli will exercise their purchase option for the player, in a deal that would ultimately total €20 million.