Births on February 15

Rui Patrício

Born on February 15, 1988

Rui Patrício, Portuguese footballer

Rui Patrício: A Distinguished Career in Goal for Club and Country

Rui Pedro dos Santos Patrício ComM (Portuguese pronunciation: [ˈʁuj pɐˈtɾisju]; born on 15 February 1988) is a highly respected Portuguese professional footballer renowned for his exceptional goalkeeping abilities. Currently, he serves as the reliable last line of defence for Italian Serie A club Roma and remains a steadfast presence in the Portugal national team. The suffix "ComM" denotes that Patrício has been awarded the title of Commander of the Order of Merit, a prestigious civil honour bestowed by the Portuguese President for distinguished services to the nation, highlighting his significant contributions beyond the football pitch.

A Sporting CP Legend: From Academy to Club Icon

Patrício's journey to professional football began at the illustrious Sporting CP youth academy, widely regarded as one of the finest football academies globally, having produced talents like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luís Figo. His talent was evident from an early age, leading to his first-team debut at just 18 years old. Over an impressive 12-year tenure with the Lisbon giants, Patrício became an undisputed club icon, making a remarkable 467 official appearances – a testament to his consistency, loyalty, and enduring quality. During this period, he played a crucial role in securing five major trophies for Sporting CP, including the Taça de Portugal twice (2007–08, 2014–15) and the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira three times (2007, 2008, 2015).

Premier League Stint with Wolverhampton Wanderers

In 2018, Patrício embarked on a new challenge, moving to England to join newly promoted Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers. His arrival was pivotal in solidifying Wolves' status in the top flight, where he quickly established himself as a key player. For three seasons, he was the first-choice goalkeeper, showcasing his vast experience and shot-stopping prowess against some of the world's best attackers in the demanding English league.

Success in Serie A with AS Roma

Following his successful spell in England, Patrício moved to Italy in 2021, signing with Serie A club AS Roma. His experience and leadership were immediately vital for the Giallorossi. In his inaugural season with Roma, he played a crucial role in the club's historic triumph in the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2022, securing their first major European trophy.

International Glory with Portugal

Rui Patrício's international career with the Portugal national team is equally distinguished. He earned his first senior cap in 2010, following the appointment of Paulo Bento as head coach, quickly establishing himself as Portugal's premier goalkeeper. His dedication and consistent performances saw him reach the significant milestone of 100 international caps in 2021, placing him among an elite group of Portuguese players. Patrício has been a central figure for Portugal in numerous major tournaments, representing the nation in two FIFA World Cups (2014, 2018) and an impressive four UEFA European Championships (2008, 2012, 2016, 2020).

His most significant international achievements include being a vital member of the squad that famously won the UEFA European Championship in 2016. Patrício played a pivotal role throughout the tournament, particularly with crucial saves, including an outstanding performance in the final against hosts France, which ultimately secured Portugal's first major international title. Furthermore, he was instrumental in Portugal's victory in the inaugural UEFA Nations League in 2019, where they defeated the Netherlands in the final, further solidifying his legacy as one of Portugal's most successful goalkeepers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rui Patrício

Who is Rui Patrício?: Rui Patrício is a highly acclaimed Portuguese professional goalkeeper who currently plays for Serie A club Roma and the Portugal national team. He is widely recognised for his extensive club career, particularly with Sporting CP, and his significant contributions to Portugal's international successes, including winning Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League.
What major trophies has Rui Patrício won?: Rui Patrício has won numerous significant titles throughout his career. With Sporting CP, he lifted the Taça de Portugal twice and the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira three times. Internationally, he was a key player in Portugal's triumph at the UEFA European Championship in 2016 and the inaugural UEFA Nations League in 2019. He also won the UEFA Europa Conference League with AS Roma in 2022.
Which clubs has Rui Patrício played for?: Rui Patrício has played for three prominent European clubs in his senior career: Sporting CP (2006-2018), Wolverhampton Wanderers (2018-2021), and currently AS Roma (2021-present).
When did Rui Patrício make his debut for the Portugal national team?: Rui Patrício earned his first cap for the Portugal national team in 2010, following the appointment of Paulo Bento as the head coach.

References

Rui Patrício

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Events on 1988

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