Distrito de Coímbra
Born in Tábua, Coimbra District, Ruca all but spent his entire senior career in the Portuguese lower leagues. In early February 2015, he signed a five-month contract with Segunda Liga club Académico de Viseu F.C. from AD Nogueirense, making his debut in the competition on 15 April in a 0–0 home draw against FC Porto B.