Family love the key thing for Leo Alves as midfielder agrees new contract to remain at Dungannon Swifts

The Portuguese-born ace, who plays international football for Guinea-Bissau, has been a mainstay in the Swifts midfield since joining forces at the County Tyrone side in 2023.

Alves played a star role as the Swifts won the Irish Cup for the first time in the club’s history in 2025, where they also fell just short in retaining the trophy last weekend.

A club statement regarding the extension reads: “Leo has been a standout performer and an integral part of the squad, with his work rate, quality, and consistency making a huge impact throughout the season. His performances in the Irish Cup campaign were particularly outstanding, playing a key role in the club’s success and memorable run.

"And of course, his acrobatics when he finds the net are always a joy to watch, a celebration that supporters have come to love!

"Everyone at the club is thrilled that Leo has committed his future to the Swifts, and we look forward to seeing him continue to play a major role in the seasons ahead.”

Alves, who turns 38 later this week, told the club’s social media platform that the family feel at Stangmore Park is something he has enjoyed since arriving through the door.

"It makes me feel happy because there's trust in what I have been doing over the last three seasons,” he added.

"I feel happy and grateful for the trust from the staff and the chairman.

"It's been very good...I feel proud and I made a good choice coming here because the club has very good people here.

"That's the most important thing. It's not about money, it's not about anything else, it's how they try to help as much as possible."

Alves was also quick to thank and highlight the importance of working alongside manager Rodney McAree.

He stated: "He's a brilliant coach and I like the way he wants to play.

"He's similar to my style...keep the ball and dominate the game, he knows me and I know him, so that makes it much easier.”