bebe_tiago
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Tiago Bebe - Manchester United forward - Player profile & stats |
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| Name: Tiago Manuel Dias Correia "Bebe" |
Nationality: Portugal |
| Position: forward |
Signing Information: Transferred from: Vitoria de Guimaraes, 16/08/2010, £7.4m |
| Birthdate: 12-07-1990 |
Years at Club: 2010-2014 |
| Age: (34) |
Debut: 22/09/2010 v Scunthorpe United (A) 5-2 (Carling Cup 3rd Round) |
| Birthplace: Agualva-Cacém, Portugal |
Previous clubs: Estrela da Amadora Club, Vitoria de Guimaraes, Rio Ave (loan), Pacos de Ferreira (loan) |
| Height: 6' 2" (1.88m) |
Farewell to Manchester United: Transferred to SL Benfica, 25/07/2014, £2.25m |
| Weight: 11st 8lbs (73.48kg) |
Passed Away: |
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Bébé is a Portuguese professional footballer best known for his time as a forward at Manchester United, where he was signed under highly unusual circumstances in 2010. Having played only one season of professional football in Portugal before moving to Old Trafford, Bébé’s signing raised eyebrows, as he was virtually unknown to most fans and football pundits. Although his time at Manchester United did not meet expectations, Bébé went on to carve out a respectable career in other European leagues, particularly in Spain’s La Liga.
Early Life and Rise to Professional Football
Born in Agualva-Cacém, a suburb of Lisbon, Bébé had a difficult upbringing and spent part of his youth in an orphanage. His early life was shaped by poverty, and he initially played street football before joining Estrela da Amadora’s youth system.
Early Career at Estrela da Amadora and Vitória de Guimarães:
Bébé made his professional debut with Estrela da Amadora in Portugal’s third division, but his breakthrough came when he joined Vitória de Guimarães in 2010. After a few impressive performances in pre-season, where he showcased his pace, power, and goal-scoring ability, Bébé attracted attention from top clubs, despite having very limited professional experience.
Transfer to Manchester United (2010)
In a surprising move, Manchester United signed Bébé in August 2010 for a reported fee of £7.4 million, just weeks after he had joined Vitória de Guimarães. The transfer was unusual because Bébé had been scouted only briefly, and even Sir Alex Ferguson, the legendary United manager at the time, admitted to having never seen him play in person. The deal was largely brokered by his agent, Jorge Mendes, and it became one of the most unexpected signings in United’s history.
Career at Manchester United (2010–2014)
Bébé’s time at Manchester United was challenging. He struggled to adapt to the demands of English football and faced criticism for his lack of technical development. Despite showing flashes of potential, his performances were inconsistent, and he failed to establish himself in the first team.
Key Moments at Manchester United:
Debut Season: Bébé made his Manchester United debut in a League Cup match against Scunthorpe United in September 2010. He scored his first goal for the club in a Premier League match against Wolves in October 2010.
Limited Appearances: Over the course of his time at United, Bébé made only 7 appearances for the first team, scoring 2 goals in all competitions. His limited opportunities, combined with his struggles on the pitch, led to him being loaned out multiple times.
Loan Spells and Move Away from Manchester United
After failing to make an impact at Manchester United, Bébé was sent on several loan spells to gain experience. He had stints at Besiktas in Turkey, Rio Ave, and Paços de Ferreira in Portugal, but struggled to consistently perform at the level expected of a Manchester United player.
In 2014, Bébé was sold to Benfica, but he did not play a significant role at the club and was subsequently loaned out to various other teams.
Career Resurgence in Spain with Rayo Vallecano
Bébé’s career found stability when he joined Rayo Vallecano in Spain’s La Liga in 2015. While at Rayo, Bébé became a regular contributor, and his performances improved significantly. He showcased his pace and direct style of play as a winger, providing assists and scoring crucial goals for the club. His time in Spain helped rejuvenate his career, and he became a key player for Rayo, particularly during their promotion campaigns.
Playing Style: Powerful and Direct
Bébé is known for his athleticism, pace, and direct running. While his technical abilities have often been questioned, he possesses a strong physical presence and a powerful shot. As a winger or forward, Bébé is most effective when running at defenders, using his speed to get behind defenses and create opportunities for his team.
Legacy
Bébé is remembered for being one of the most unconventional signings in Manchester United’s history. Despite his struggles at Old Trafford, he demonstrated resilience by continuing his career across Europe, eventually finding success in La Liga with Rayo Vallecano. His story is one of perseverance, as he overcame significant personal and professional challenges to forge a respectable career in football.
Summary
Bébé is a Portuguese forward who was signed by Manchester United in a highly unexpected move in 2010. Despite his limited impact at United, he continued his career across several leagues, eventually finding success in Spain with Rayo Vallecano. Known for his pace and powerful style of play, Bébé’s journey from street football in Portugal to the biggest stage in England is a testament to his perseverance and resilience. |
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League Cup |
FA Cup |
Charity Shield |
European Cup |
Europa League |
Super Cup |
Cup Winners Cup |
Inter-Continental Cup |
World Clubs Cup |
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Season
Goals |
Season
Apps |
| 1 |
2010-2011 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
3 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
7 |
| TOTALS |
0 |
2 |
1 |
3 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
7 |
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