In his first season as a senior, Ruca was loaned to hometown's C.D. Tondela. He made his competitive debut against Amarante F.C. on 30 August 2009, in a match for the Taça de Portugal. He continued to be loaned the following years, to Vilaverdense FC, GD Oliveira de Frades (two spells) and again Tondela.II Divisão – Norte: Vieirinha e Hugo Costa reforçam Tondela (II Division – North: Vieirinha and Hugo Costa strengthen Tondela); Agente Desportivo, 29 August 2011 (in Portuguese)
