Dear members and supporters of Gondomar Sport Clube,
It is with a great sense of responsibility that I address you all at this difficult time in the club’s life, following this relegation that saddens us all. I begin by sharing my frustration, dismay, and even anger, legitimate feelings of all who want a stronger, more competitive Gondomar Sport Clube worthy of its history, and who cannot help but express their discontent.
But it is time to clarify some issues to prevent certain matters involving the club from being distorted and questioning the honor and good name of those who have led Gondomar Sport Clube. I emphasize that since I took over the presidency of the club more than two decades ago, every season has had daily challenges.
However, in recent seasons, the severe financial crisis has intensified, affecting a club without fixed revenues, without consistent support, and with numerous responsibilities.
At a time when the club needed everyone, it has been me – with my own resources – who has ensured urgent payments, salaries, travel, maintenance expenses, and other basic obligations to keep the club alive.
I am not here asking for recognition. But I demand truth and respect. Respect for those who did not turn their backs. Respect for those who put their face, time, and even personal money into ensuring the club continues to exist.
To those who accuse me of being “clinging to power,” I remind you that several General Assemblies have been called over the years, open to members, but no one has ever come forward with an alternative project to take on the presidency. I understand the discontent, but it is no use shouting from the stands or criticizing through social media, hiding behind a keyboard, when you do not have the courage to step up, roll up your sleeves, and take on responsibilities.
In recent days, accusations have resurfaced pointing to me as responsible for the relegation from the Second League, which once again reflect a distorted narrative of reality regarding a situation that was the result of a judicial decision, motivated by irregularities of previous administrations of Gondomar Sport Clube, as a simple consultation of the records proves.
True lovers of Gondomar Sport Clube should reflect: the club needs unity and solutions, not insults or unfair judgments in the public square. Constructive criticism is and always will be welcome, but gratuitous attacks will only further weaken those who already carry a heavy burden. My position is and will always be at the disposal of the members, as long as serious and credible alternatives appear, with projects to work on the club. Until then, I commit, once again, to do the possible (and often the impossible) for Gondomar Sport Clube to survive and be reborn with dignity. But I remind you that only together can we overcome this difficult phase and rebuild a future worthy of our history.
With respect and truth,
The President of Gondomar Sport Clube.