Irankunda seals Sporting move after impressive World Cup showing

Australian winger Nestory Irankunda has completed his move from Watford to Sporting, according to L'Équipe. The Portuguese club has paid approximately €15 million to land the 20-year-old, who has penned a five-year contract.

Irankunda arrives in Portugal on the back of an excellent World Cup campaign with Australia. The right winger was one of the standout performers for the Socceroos, producing memorable moments including a stunning goal against Turkey in Australia's opening group match (2-0). Although the Socceroos were eliminated in the round of 16 by Egypt on penalties (1-1 after extra time, 2-4 on penalties), Irankunda departed with an enhanced reputation after accumulating 4 goals and 5 assists in 40 Championship appearances for Watford.

Building a career

Irankunda will have the chance to establish himself at a top club in Sporting. The Portuguese side, runner-up last season and qualified for the Champions League, hope the potential shown by Irankunda at the World Cup will translate to club football. The player has previously progressed through Bayern Munich's youth ranks before joining Watford, and now seeks to consolidate himself in a top European league.