Sporting: Debast Out for League Opener Against Estrela da Amadora

Zeno Debast has returned to Alvalade without a single minute played at the World Cup for Belgium. For now, the 22-year-old center-back continues to train individually and under restricted conditions, a consequence of the physical issues that have plagued him since the tail end of last season. Sources indicate that Debast is likely to miss the Lions' official season opener against Estrela da Amadora on August 8th.

Given his lengthy layoff — he hasn't competed since May 4th — and some controversy between the medical departments of Sporting and the Belgian federation, the club is keen to ensure the defender returns only when in peak physical condition. Still in the early stages of pre-season, having only rejoined the squad last Saturday, Debast risks missing the initial league fixtures to ensure a full return to competitive action.