Former sporting director Vítor Catão spoke outside the courthouse after being acquitted in a case involving the illegal recruitment of players. Catão, who previously worked for São Pedro da Cova in Gondomar, was accused of bringing in 11 foreign athletes without proper legalization procedures during the 2018/19 season. Yesterday’s verdict cleared him of all charges. “I knew it was all lies,” Catão stated as he left the courthouse in Porto.
“I am a fantastic citizen, football owes me a lot,” Catão declared, expressing relief and a sense of vindication. The case had drawn attention to recruitment practices in Portuguese lower-league football, but the court found no evidence of wrongdoing on Catão’s part. He maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings and welcomed the outcome as a confirmation of his integrity.
The acquittal marks the end of a legal process that had cast a shadow over Catão’s career. While the former director did not elaborate on future plans, he emphasized his continued passion for football and belief in fair play. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, though Catão remains confident in his contributions to the sport.
