Ricardo José Vaz Alves Monteiro (born 7 October 1983), known as Tarantini, is a Portuguese former professional footballer who played as a central 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.
In summer 2008, Tarantini signed for Rio Ave F.C. of the Primeira Liga,[4] making his debut in the competition on 24 August in a 1–1 home draw against S.L. Benfica (82 minutes played)[5] and finishing his debut season with 20 matches and five starts to help his team to the 12th position.
Tarantini remained a regular in the 2019–20 season, as Rio Ave finished a joint-best fifth and with a record points tally of 55.[10] On 22 February, he made his 400th appearance in a 2–1 victory at C.D. Tondela.[11] In May 2021, after the team's relegation, he went up to the fans in tears and asked for forgiveness; he was met with applause and requests to stay with the club,[12] but was ultimately released by the board of directors in July.[13]
In October 2021, shortly after having announced his retirement, the 38-year-old Tarantini joined Ivo Vieira's coaching staff at F.C. Famalicão.[14]
Personal life
Tarantini held a degree and a master's degree in sports science from the University of Beira Interior, which he obtained still as a professional footballer.[15] In November 2017, he released a book A Minha Causa (My Cause) with advice for his fellow professionals on life after retiring from the game.[16]
