Tiago Santos: The Portuguese Fullback Imposing Himself at Lille

Baller Review – Tiago SantosClub: LOSC LilleNationality: PortugalPosition(s): RBPreferred Foot: RightHeight: 5’9”/175cmAge: 21Strengths: press resistance, ball progression, dribbling, crossing, passing, security, tackling, ball strikingAreas for Development: aerial duels

From Rafael Leão to Renato Sanches, from José Fonte to Tiago Djaló, we've seen quite a few Portuguese players to make a name for themselves at Lille, and the latest player to do so is Tiago Santos. Born in Lisbon, Santos developed at Sporting's academy before departing in 2017 after eight years, cutting his teeth at lower-tier sides Oeiras and Sacavense. He would return in 2019, spending two years at the Alcochete academy before heading for Cascais.

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Santos spent a year at Estoril's U-23 ranks before being promoted into the first-team squad in the summer of 2022, and it didn't take long for him to make an impact. He made his professional debut on August 19, 2022, grabbing the opener in a 2-2 draw vs. Rio Ave, and he would quickly emerge as one of the finest right backs in the Portuguese top-flight. He received the Young Player of the Month award in Primeira Liga for April 2023, racking up 5 assists in 30 league appearances.