Former Portimonense president Manuel João passed away this Thursday, the Portuguese Football League club said, recalling his “charismatic leadership and entrepreneurial spirit”.
“President Fernando Rocha, the entire structure and family of Portimonense Sporting Clube regret the departure of a great leader and symbolic figure. It is with great sadness that we have received the news of the passing of our esteemed President Manuel João, who has dedicated so much to our Portimonense over the years,” the Portimão club said in a statement.
Manuel João, who died at the age of 82, managed the Algarve emblem from 1978 to 1994, a period marked by Portimonense’s only presence in European competition, in the UEFA Cup in 1985/86, when he was eliminated by Partizan from what was then Yugoslavia. in the first round.
“Throughout his journey, he left an indelible mark on history as a tireless defender of our values and our identity. His dedication and dedication have played a key role in the evolution of the club, helping it become one of the benchmarks of the national sport. ” emphasizes the note of regret issued by Portimonense.
The club also stresses that “his charismatic leadership and his entrepreneurial spirit have inspired all those who have worked with him and all who share the passion for the Portimonense Sports Club” and that his legacy “consisting of accomplishments, challenges overcome and hard work has always will be remembered as a source of inspiration and motivation for future generations.”