Full-back Pedro Maranhão has left CD Tondela and signed for a Chinese club, ending more than two years at the Portuguese side. The move was confirmed this week, with the player heading to Asian football after featuring in 27 games for Tondela this season — a campaign in which the team battled relegation in the Primeira Liga, sitting 17th with 28 points from 34 matches (6 wins, 10 draws, 18 losses).

What happened with Pedro Maranhão at Tondela?

Pedro Maranhão joined Tondela in 2024 from Moreirense and quickly became a key figure in the club’s defense. Over the 2025/26 season, the full-back made 27 appearances, contributing two goals and one assist — modest numbers but important in a squad that struggled defensively, conceding 55 goals, the second-worst record in the league. His exit comes as the club reshapes its squad, preparing for a new cycle after a tough campaign.

Why China?

Sources close to the player indicate the Chinese offer surpassed what Tondela could match financially, while also including an attractive sporting project. Maranhão, 26, chose to pursue an international career outside Europe, following the path of other Portuguese players who have moved to China in recent years. The decision wasn’t easy, but the full-back felt it was the right time to take the step.

Immediate impact on Tondela

Pedro Maranhão’s departure leaves a gap at right-back for Tondela, a position where the club has struggled to find a stable starter. The team’s new coach — yet to be announced for next season — will now need to address the spot, likely through a young signing or a loan. Tondela sits 17th with 28 points, 11 clear of safety, and their next fixture is scheduled for November 8, 2026, away to Sporting CP B.

Tondela ends the 2025/26 season with 27 goals scored and 55 conceded, a -28 goal difference that highlights the team’s defensive struggles. With Maranhão gone, the club now faces the challenge of rebuilding the backline without losing ground in the relegation fight — the side has six wins, ten draws, and eighteen losses, with recent form of LWWDL.