Farioli highlights Torreense’s challenge in the Super Cup against FC Porto.

Francesco Farioli, coach of FC Porto, addressed a number of crucial topics in an interview with RTP, highlighting the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira, which will take place on Saturday at 20:15 at Estádio Cidade de Coimbra, where his team will face Torreense, the winners of the Taça de Portugal. Farioli acknowledges the added responsibility that FC Porto faces, given that they are the national champions and title holders, especially against a team that, despite playing in the second tier, has shown great ambition.

Farioli emphasized the importance of respecting Torreense's journey, which has achieved historic qualification for European competitions. “In a final, you play to win and with the desire to lift the trophy,” he stated. The coach made a point of mentioning that Torreense has already proven to be a competitive team and that FC Porto should approach the match with respect and determination. “It will be a game that requires a lot of attention on our part,” he added, underscoring the importance of the trophy for his team.

The possibility of a surprise, similar to what happened to Sporting in the cup final, was also raised. Farioli admitted that this situation is present in his team's memory, referencing the scars from defeats suffered against Casa Pia and Aves. “Football is a game we love also for the unexpected results. Favoritism is only on paper,” he warned, reinforcing that the team must always be ready to compete hard.

Regarding the new season, Farioli emphasized the need to maintain the same ambition and competitive impact as the previous season, but also to find a balance that allows the team to evolve. “Tactically, there are areas we need to improve and things we want to do better,” he said, mentioning that it may be necessary to change some details or simply execute the same actions more fluidly.

The coach also commented on the difficulty of dealing with the transfer market still being open while official matches are taking place. “We would love for the market to close before the start of the competitions,” he lamented. Farioli acknowledged that integrating new players is a complex process that requires time and adaptation, but assured that everyone at the club is aware of the needs to strengthen the squad.

Finally, when asked about identifying specific targets, such as a left-back and a striker, Farioli confirmed that those positions are under consideration. “We are waiting for the players we know we would like to have here to elevate the level of the team,” he concluded, expressing his focus on strengthening his team's competitiveness on all fronts.