Cup final farewells, Palhinha spotted in Lisbon

Cup final day

This is the big one. Sporting face Torreense at the Jamor today in the Portuguese Cup final, chasing back-to-back domestic cup titles. Rui Borges can join an elite club – only three Sporting managers have ever won the Taça de Portugal in consecutive seasons. The squad met before departing for holidays, but this is no curtain call. It's a final.

Hjulmand's last dance?

Everything points to this being Morten Hjulmand's farewell appearance. The captain is widely expected to leave, with a move to join José Mourinho reportedly imminent. A trophy in his final match would be a fitting send-off for one of the most influential figures in the squad.

Midfield rebuild takes shape

Two confirmed exits and one likely arrival. Morita and Quenda have already said their goodbyes – your midfield will look very different next season. On the incoming side, Sporting are close to landing BK Häcken midfielder Silas Andersen on a five-year deal.

Araujo attracting English interest

Manchester United and Arsenal have enquired about Maxi Araujo. The price tag being floated is €80 million. That's serious money for a player who has become a cornerstone of your defence.

Champions League fate out of your hands

Your route into next season's Champions League depends on Manchester City's result against Aston Villa. You finished 2nd domestically, 82 points, +65 goal difference – but the fine print of qualification means eyes will be on that result elsewhere.

Fan reactions

The mood is bittersweet. Farewell posts for Quenda and Morita have been pouring in, with fans sharing gratitude for their contributions. The Luis Suárez thread has the fanbase reflecting warmly on his first year at the club. But the big talking point has been Palhinha – spotted in Lisbon with Trincão, Amorim, and Franco Israel, sending the rumour mill into overdrive about a potential return. See the full thread

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