FC Porto enters the new season with unshakeable confidence in its defensive structure, making it clear that, at least in two fundamental areas, there will be no changes or surprises. In a context where transfer market movements are stirring up rivals, the Dragons remain uncompromising: the central defensive axis and the right-back position are secured and, barring extraordinary events, will remain so until the end of the transfer window.
With the start of work at the Jorge Costa Sports Training and Development Center in Olival next week, the Porto team is preparing to tackle five demanding competitions — the Portuguese League, the Portuguese Cup, the League Cup, the Champions League, and the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira — with a squad that has a well-defined defensive backbone. The management led by André Villas-Boas has ensured the retention of its key assets, unless irresistible offers arise that activate their release clauses, but the solidity of the defensive sector is not in question. Bednarek and Kiwior, the latter sought after by Barcelona during the summer, form a genuine Polish wall at the center, well supported by Nehuén Pérez — already recovered from a serious Achilles tendon injury — and Dominik Prpic, reinforcing the depth of the squad for a season that promises to be a true test of physical and mental endurance.
THE 2026 WORLD CUP IS EXPERIENCED WITH LEGO
Coach Francesco Farioli, who saw Pablo Rosario demonstrate remarkable versatility throughout last season, is faced with a wealth of options regarding defensive solutions. Rosario, capable of playing in the center or on the flanks, is another guarantee of reliability, alongside the core quartet. Regarding the approach to the transfer market, Farioli was unequivocal: “With Bednarek, Kiwior, Prpic, and Pérez, we have sufficient quality and adequate quantity. Only a scenario of serious injury would force us to rethink our strategy.” This position has been reinforced by the club’s management, which, according to internal sources, does not intend to sign any more central defenders unless an unforeseen circumstance arises at the last minute.
On the right side of the defense, the battle promises to be intense and healthy. Martim Fernandes is back after overcoming a complicated injury to the sole of his right foot, ready to compete for a starting position with Alberto Costa, who finished the previous season in excellent form. Farioli does not hide his satisfaction at being able to count on both: “Having two quality natural right-backs allows us to manage effort and maintain high competitiveness in all competitions,” said the Italian coach, making it clear that internal competition only benefits the collective. The players themselves, whenever faced with competition, have consistently emphasized the team spirit and the desire to contribute to the success of the Dragons, regardless of who starts.
FC Porto thus presents a solid defense prepared for the challenges ahead, with expectations that the first choices for the starting eleven of the new season will emerge during the preparation for the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira, scheduled to take place at Estádio Cidade de Coimbra on August 1 or 2, against the surprising Torreense, winners of the last Taça de Portugal. This defensive stability could prove decisive not only for a strong start but also for the much-anticipated defense of the national title, the primary objective of the Dragons in the 2026/27 season.
At this moment, the Porto administration is focusing efforts in other areas of the field, aware that, in defense, the options are closed and the house is practically in order. With Bednarek, Kiwior, Nehuén Pérez, Prpic, Martim Fernandes, Alberto Costa, and the versatility of Pablo Rosario, FC Porto establishes itself as one of the best-prepared teams in the national landscape, ready to face a grueling schedule without sacrificing the consistency that defines champions. The next month will be crucial for fine-tuning processes and consolidating dynamics, but the message is clear: in the defensive fortress of the Dragon, there is no room for improvisation.
NOW YOU CAN FOLLOW THE WORLD CUP WITH ALL THE INFORMATION – HERE
Discover more from Apito Final
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
