"When you have the best athlete in the world, you work for him" - Antonio Morgado happy to wait for leadership opportunities at UAE

It hasn't taken Antonio Morgado long to make a name for himself in the professional peloton. In just his second season at World Tour level, the 21-year-old Portuguese star has 5 victories to his palmares already and emerged as one of UAE Team Emirates - XRG's leading stars of the future.

In a extensive interview with Bici.Pro, Morgado recently opened up on his goals for the future, working alongside Tadej Pogacar and more. "My goal is to be consistent and try to win races when I’m given the freedom to do so. Otherwise, I will make myself available to my teammates to help them win. That’s it," he says simply, seemingly more than content with the often domestique role he is given when racing for the all-star UAE Team Emirates - XRG.

"I feel stronger mentally; last year was different. It was my first year in this world, and you never know what could happen. You always think the others are stronger or too strong, but then you realize that’s not the case. Racing alongside great champions and professionals is really nice because I get to see how they live, eat, and recover. So, I feel privileged to be part of this team," Morgado continues. "I really like this team. But I think we all need to respect each other. When you have the best athlete in the world, you work for him. I’ve never had the desire to surpass him (Pogacar ed.) in the hierarchy. Having Tadej on the team pushes all of us to do our best. It’s a pleasure to race with athletes like him."

With Morgado having especially impressed in the one-day race and Spring Classics season now up and running for 2025, it could be a big few weeks and months in the career of the Portuguese. "You can only improve your own strength, become more and more competitive," he says when asked about his areas still needing improvement. "That’s the only thing you can do if you have great numbers."

And as for competing for wins at a Grand Tour, Morgado is again happy to be patient, despite expectations of a Vuelta a Espana debut later this year. "No, I won’t be doing that yet. Before knowing if I can become that type of rider, I first need to participate," he concludes. "At the moment, I don’t really know what type of athlete I am. When I have good legs, I think I can do a bit of everything. But when I’m not in good shape, I can’t do anything. I like to feel good; it’s a feeling that gives me confidence, and I know that’s when I can do my best."