João Meira is part of one of the golden generations of Cova da Piedade's youth academy, the club where he also began his senior career, in the old Portuguese third division, after three years in Sadina's youth ranks.
After his time with the blue-and-maroon side, his career was always on the rise. A season at Mafra, then a move to Tapadinha, where he reached professional competitions with Atlético. Three seasons later came another leap, this time to Belém, the club with which he reached the Portuguese top flight. Later spells followed at Chicago Fire and Norwegian side Vålerenga.
Off the pitch, João Meira hasn't 'let go' of football either, with Football Manager being one of his favourite games. So we sat down to talk with him about that 'addiction'.
POP: What was the first CM/FM you played, and who introduced you to it?
João Meira: I think it was CM 98/99. I remember my brother and I used to play a lot of Elifoot but when we saw CM with better graphics and a database, we got hooked!
POP: And when did you first appear in the game?
João Meira: I'm not sure, but I think I first appeared in FM05/06 in Vitória Futebol Clube's youth ranks.
POP: What was the first edition where you felt your rating was fair?
João Meira: Even today I don't think it's fair! Just kidding.. Maybe 12/13..
POP: And nowadays, do you agree with the profile they've made of you, which attributes would you change?
João Meira: Yes, I think so! I'd change my passing and pace. I'm not that slow!
POP: Do you think the Norwegian researchers researchers will lower your attributes, after your short spell at Vålerenga?
João Meira: It's possible, unfortunately I got injured and didn't get the time to show what I could do.
POP: Have you ever bought yourself in a save? If yes, would you put yourself in the starting line-up ahead of players with better attributes than you? Were you lenient with yourself and forgave your own bad performances?
João Meira: Not always. I was realistic enough to understand that with my attributes I wouldn't fit into teams above my level, but whenever I had the chance, yes!
POP: Were you the type to create your own tactics, or did you turn to forums and use other people's tactics?
João Meira: I always made my own tactics based on the players I had, and I still do to this day.
POP: In Football Manager, you appear among Cova da Piedade's Icons, the club where you started your development and later your senior career, alongside another club icon, Luís Leal. Could we hope to see both of you make a comeback in the future, or is that a long shot?
João Meira: I had no idea, but it's something that makes me happy. There's always that possibility, yes, although right now I have other plans, but the possibility is there.
POP: To wrap up, do you remember any funny story you can share with us about your experiences with FM?
João Meira: I remember having an save online with four friends, and during the holidays we'd stay up all night to the point of sometimes falling asleep waiting for one another. Another funny one was leading Atlético Clube de Portugal to be champions of everything and then some.
Quick answer:
Favourite team you've ever played as in FM?
Atlético Clube de Portugal, Bétis and Queens Park Rangers
Favourite player?
Tsigalko
Favourite league to play in:
English
Favourite tactic?
4-3-3
Longest save? With whom, and until when.
Atlético until 2029. Started the save in 11-12
Biggest achievement?
Champions of everything and then some
