Cédric Soares Signs Permanent Deal with São Paulo After Successful Trial
When Cédric Soares, the 33‑year‑old Portuguese right‑back, walked onto the training pitch at São Paulo’s CT da Barra Funda on January 27, 2025, the club’s executives saw more than a player looking for a fresh start – they saw a veteran who could bolster a squad hungry for silverware.
The former Arsenal defender completed a permanent transfer to São Paulo FC after a three‑month trial that began in late‑October. The deal, running until April 30, 2025 with a performance‑based renewal option through December, ends a year‑long hiatus that began when his contract with Arsenal expired in March 2024.
From Lisbon to London: Soares’ Journey Before Brazil
Born in Lisbon, Cédric Ricardo Alves Soares rose through the ranks at Sporting CP, making 93 senior appearances between 2011 and 2015. A move to the Premier League followed, first with Southampton in 2015, a brief loan to Inter Milan in 2019, and finally a January 2020 loan – then permanent – to Arsenal.
At Arsenal, Soares earned roughly £75,000 per week, according to Spotrac, but saw limited game time under Mikel Arteta. His last competitive minutes came in an EFL Cup tie in December 2022; the 2023‑24 season he spent on loan at Fulham before his Arsenal contract ran out in March 2024.
The Trial at São Paulo: How It All Started
The catalyst was a visit by Julio Casares, president of São Paulo FC, to England in early October 2024. While meeting representatives of the ex‑Arsenal player, Casares offered access to the club’s training facilities for a “symbolic salary” to help Soares regain fitness.
During the 90‑day trial, Soares trained under head coach Luis Zubeldía. The Argentine tactician, known for demanding defensive discipline, monitored Soares’ physical conditioning and tactical adaptability. "If he shows the right attitude and matches the intensity we demand, a contract is natural," Zubeldía told reporters after a training session at São Paulo’s Barra Funda complex.
Contract Details: What the Numbers Mean
- Initial term: January 27, 2025 – April 30, 2025.
- Renewal clause: Extension possible until December 31, 2025 if performance objectives are met.
- Salary: Market‑aligned figures to be disclosed after the renewal decision.
- Bonus structure: Appearance‑based and team‑achievement incentives.
Casares clarified that the club would evaluate Soares not just on fitness, but on his ability to integrate into the squad’s left‑back and right‑back rotations, especially with the upcoming 2025 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A fixtures.
Reactions: Fans, Teammates and the Portuguese Media
São Paulo supporters took to social media after the announcement, posting GIFs of Soares celebrating the Euro 2016 final. "We need experience like his – someone who’s tasted victory on the biggest stage," wrote a fan on X.
Back at Arsenal, technical director John Murtough (formerly "Edu") recalled the defender’s professionalism. "He was a solid squad player, always ready when called. It’s good to see him continuing his career," Murtough said in a brief interview.
In Portugal, sports journalist Pedro Pacheco noted, "Soares is the first high‑profile Portuguese player to move to Brazil in the modern era. It could open a pathway for others seeking playing time after Premier League stints."
Why It Matters for Brazilian Football
Brazilian clubs rarely sign European full‑backs in the prime of their careers; most foreign acquisitions are attackers. Soares brings a blend of Premier League grit and international tournament experience – qualities that could help São Paulo tighten a defense that conceded 31 goals in the first half of the season.
The move also reflects a growing trend of South American clubs tapping into the pool of European players who are out of contract yet still possess high technical standards. "It’s a win‑win," Casares argued. "We get a seasoned professional; he gets a platform to showcase his abilities again."
Looking Ahead: What to Expect This Season
Coach Zubeldía plans to rotate Soares between right‑back and occasional left‑back duties, depending on opponent tactics. If Soares meets the club’s performance metrics – at least 15 league starts and a clean‑sheet rate of 40% – a new contract through December 2025 becomes likely.
Beyond the club, the Portuguese national team’s coaching staff will monitor his progress. Though Soares hasn’t featured since the 2018 World Cup, a strong showing in Brazil could spark a recall for friendlies ahead of Euro 2028 qualifiers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Soares’ signing affect São Paulo’s defensive lineup?
Soares adds Premier League experience and international pedigree, giving coach Zubeldía a reliable option at right‑back. His presence should improve defensive organization and set‑piece defending, potentially lowering the team’s goals‑against tally in the second half of the season.
Will Soares be eligible to play in upcoming Copa Libertadores matches?
Yes. The registration window for the 2025 Copa Libertadores opens in early March. Assuming the club completes the paperwork before the deadline, Soares can be listed in the squad and could feature once he’s match‑fit.
What motivated Soares to move to Brazil after a career in Europe?
After a year without competitive minutes, Soares sought regular playing time and a new challenge. The trial offered a low‑risk way to prove his fitness, while São Paulo presented a passionate football environment and the chance to be a key figure in a top‑flight South American side.
Could this transfer open doors for other European players in Brazil?
Potentially. Soares’ successful integration may encourage Brazilian clubs to scout seasoned European talent looking for a fresh start, especially those sidelined by injuries or contract disputes in Europe.
What are the financial details of the contract?
The initial term runs until April 30, 2025, with a performance‑based renewal that could extend the deal to December 31, 2025. Salary figures have not been disclosed, but the club indicated they will be “market‑aligned” and include appearance bonuses.