Tarantini

Ricardo Jose Vaz Alves Monteiro (born 7 October 1983), known as Tarantini, is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder.

He spent most of his career with Rio Ave, making 444 competitive appearances including 345 in the Primeira Liga. Earlier, he played 112 games and scored 21 goals in the LigaPro for three other clubs.

Club Career

Born in the village of in Gestaco, in Baiao, Tarantini earned his nickname from his physical resemblance to Argentine footballer Alberto Tarantini. He started playing football with Amarante FC, remaining in the club's youth system for eight years, then made his debut as a senior with S.C. Covilha in 2002. He alternated between the second and third divisions until 2008, also representing Gondomar S.C. and Portimonense SC.

In summer 2008, Tarantini signed for Rio Ave F.C. of the Primeira Liga, making his debut in the competition on 24 August in a 1–1 home draw against S.L. Benfica (82 minutes played) and finishing his debut season with 20 matches and five starts to help his team to the 12th position.