This first group (of a total of 37 defendants held on remand) was arrested on the night of 15 May. Judge Jorge Delca added that the 23 defendants continue under the most severe coercive measure.

In September the other defendants are going to be reevaluated, including the former leader of Juventude Leonina (Sporting’s supporters’ group), Fernando Mendes.

On May 15, 2018, the Sporting team was attacked at their own academy by a group of 40 alleged hooded supporters, assaulting staff, players and coaching personnel.

After the attack, nine players cancelled their contract with the club.

Rui Patricio, Rafael Leão, Daniel Podence and Gelson Martins left in dispute with Sporting and were transferred to other clubs, while Ruben Ribeiro is still in the team.

Bas Dost, Bruno Fernandes and Rodrigo Battaglia went back on their decision to leave Sporting. William Carvalho left for Spain’s Real Betis after an agreement between them and his former club.