Alan Varela: “Proud to captain Portugal’s biggest club” | OneFootball

In his third season serving FC Porto, Alan Varela recently reached the symbolic milestone of 100 games for the Dragons, a landmark the Argentine midfielder receives with pride and a sense of responsibility. Integrated into the group of captains, the 23-year-old is going through a phase of affirmation and says he is living a more positive period after a season he considers below expectations.

He himself admitted: “I’m aware that last year I wasn’t good. I wasn’t at the level I showed in my first season at FC Porto. But I’m human; I can make mistakes too,” acknowledged the Argentine, stressing that in 2025 he feels “better,” supported by the people at the club and his teammates. “The people at the club help me a lot, they support me, and that has been essential to regain confidence.”

The win against Benfica coincided with Varela’s 100th game in the blue and white shirt – an achievement the midfielder attributes to the trust of the coaches and daily work. “I’ve played many games, some good, others not so good, but it’s all the result of effort and dedication. I hope to continue like this and add many more,” he said.

With his contract renewed this year and taking on the role of captain, Alan Varela says he feels great pride in representing FC Porto. “It’s something beautiful. We already know everything FC Porto stands for: it’s the biggest in Portugal and one of the biggest in Europe. It’s a huge satisfaction for me. I’m very happy to be at this club,” he declared.

On the pitch he has taken on a leadership role and is often seen talking with referees, especially when Diogo Costa is in goal. “I’ve always been someone who talks to referees, even before the rule that only the captain can do so. I try to understand and explain some situations where the referee might be mistaken. It’s something natural for me,” he explained.

Linked to clubs like Liverpool, Atlético de Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in transfer rumors, Varela sees these reports as recognition of his work, but emphasizes that his focus is entirely on the present. “Those rumors mean I’m doing things well. Of course I want to keep improving and growing, always in service of FC Porto. If one day the opportunity arises to play in the Premier League, it will be welcome, but I’m completely focused on FC Porto,” he assured.

With composure and commitment, Alan Varela consolidates his status as a leader and an example of dedication in Porto’s midfield, promising to continue giving everything for a club that, he says, “is the biggest in Portugal and one of the biggest in Europe.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.