Hearts hero Cláudio Braga explains his love for club and fans

Hearts forward Cláudio Braga has opened up about his bond with the club and its supporters in a new interview with Diário de Notícias, describing how his life has changed since moving to Scotland.

The 26-year-old Portuguese striker, born in Mafamude and wearing the No. 10 shirt for the Edinburgh side, has become one of the symbols of Hearts’ stunning start to the season.

With nine goals and one assist in 11 league matches, he’s helped Derek McInnes’ team lead the Scottish Premiership unbeaten, nine points ahead of Celtic.

Braga said he immediately felt connected to the club and its fans. “I couldn’t stop smiling during my presentation. I was genuinely happy to be there. That’s when the fans started to like me. Many told me they hadn’t seen a Hearts player smile that much in a long time,” he recalled.

His popularity grew further when Hearts supporters created a chant for him inspired by Queen’s “Radio Ga Ga” – a video that quickly went viral in Portugal.

Living a dream with Hearts

Braga admitted it’s been a new experience: “It’s good to be recognised, it means I’m having success. But I’m not used to that kind of attention, so it’s a bit hard to manage sometimes.”

The forward also praised the connection between the players and the Tynecastle Park crowd. “Every match is sold out, and the fans are amazing. It’s been the perfect fit,” he said, adding that the league’s intensity suits his own style. “Scottish football is very fast, very aggressive. I’m an intense player, so it’s the ideal league for me.”

Braga said he’s trying to enjoy the moment rather than think too far ahead. “It feels like living a dream. I’m so happy here that I just want to make the most of it.”

Hearts supporters will hope the dream can continue for the rest of the season.