Renato Veiga discusses moment in his career that was ‘mentally tough’

Add as preferred source on Google

Right now, things are going well for Chelsea and Portugal star Renato Veiga in his career.

Renato Veiga recently joined Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, and became a full Portugal international during the last international break.

Veiga has won Enzo Maresca’s approval as well, so the defender can be pleased with life at this moment in time.

However, things have not always been easy for Veiga, which the 21-year-old has explained.

• READ MORE: Marc Cucurella wowed by ‘top’ Chelsea teammate after his performance for his country

Renato Veiga on his move from Sporting Lisbon to Augsburg

Veiga came through Sporting Lisbon’s academy before joining German club Augsburg on loan.

The Chelsea player has now admitted that he found it tough at first after moving to Augsburg.

Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, he said: “Living in Lisbon was top, so when I went to Germany it was kind of a shock. It was mentally tough. It was the first time I was away from my family. That was the hardest thing for me, because I’m a family guy.

“I had been living with them in Lisbon, and then I went alone at 19 years old to Augsburg. It’s like a village! It was a different reality, but it made me grow so much. I had to, in such a short space of time, but without that I wouldn’t have developed my character. I was trying to take a bit from everything, and keep going. I really appreciate those times.”

In the end, Veiga’s move to Augsburg helped him to develop. The Portuguese media have been very impressed with Veiga following his switch to Chelsea.

What has Renato Veiga said about his Chelsea move?

Now at Stamford Bridge following a spell at Basel, Veiga says he is proud to be wearing the Chelsea shirt.

“I’m just grateful to be honest, and trying to enjoy every bit,” he said. “I’m very happy and proud to be here. It’s always a moment of pride to put the shirt on.”

Veiga has not received too many starting opportunities in the Premier League this season. In fact, the former Basel man has only made one start in the English top flight.

He would have been hoping to start in Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat to Liverpool last month with Marc Cucurella suspended, but Maresca went with Malo Gusto instead.

However, Veiga has been a regular for Chelsea in the Conference League. He has started in all of their games in that competition so far, including the two qualifiers they had to play in August.

Veiga will be desperate for more opportunities in the Premier League. But for now, he just looks grateful to be at a club as big as Chelsea.

Veiga can also play in midfield, starting there against Bournemouth in September, so his versatility should help him to get game time under Maresca this season.