Sporting CP have a long tradition of nurturing talented young players, most notably Cristiano Ronaldo, and this approach has extended to their thriving women’s team.
While Sporting have yet to challenge Benfica’s domestic supremacy, their development success is evident in Olivia Smith, who was signed from Canada’s youth system and later transferred to Liverpool for a record-breaking fee. Now, the club is attracting English talents as well.
Two members of their squad are known to followers of England’s youth teams: 25-year-old Georgia Eaton-Collins, who arrived from Danish club HB Køge last year, and 19-year-old Ria Bose, formerly of Chelsea’s academy. For players at different stages of their careers, the move to Lisbon has offered distinct lessons.
"I’ve played in several different environments, each with its own challenges," says Eaton-Collins, who also spent time in the US collegiate system and briefly returned to England with Leicester. "Sporting, in particular, has pushed me technically. Being around such intelligent, skilled players daily has helped me develop new aspects of my game."
Bose, who had never played outside England's youth system—joining Brighton at six before moving to Chelsea—shares a similar view.
"The playing style was the hardest adjustment," she says. "Chelsea and England follow a similar approach across the board, which becomes second nature. Here, I’ve had to ask questions and find ways to improve—which is exactly why I came. It’s been tough, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything."
Beyond football, Bose is experiencing life away from home for the first time. "It’s been difficult but rewarding. Getting injured shortly after arriving wasn’t ideal, but being around the senior Portuguese players has been invaluable. You see their professionalism and willingness to guide younger players, and that’s what stands out most. Even when I was injured, they made sure I felt part of the team."
Though she and Eaton-Collins had never met before, Bose describes her teammate as a "big sister" who helped her settle in. "The hardest part was not having a dog, so I got one! I’ve never been without one—my mum was shocked when I told her," she jokes. "Having someone to relate to, who understands your background, has been so important. When I was hurt, she was always there."
For Bose, stepping outside her comfort zone has been worthwhile.
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