Deniz Gül faces a baptism of fire in Vila do Conde to win over Farioli | OneFootball

Deniz Gul’s future at FC Porto remains shrouded in doubt at a time when the striker is being linked with a possible move to Galatasaray. The Turk could be the player from the national champions who has reportedly told Francesco Farioli of his intention to leave the club this summer. However, for now, any departure is being held back by the limitations currently affecting Porto’s attack.

With Samu Aghehowa still recovering from a serious injury, which should keep him sidelined until mid-November, and André Silva being treated for the sprain he suffered against Alverca, the Turkish international is shaping up to start in Saturday’s away match against Rio Ave in Vila do Conde.

As things stand, Deniz Gul is currently the only natural centre-forward available to Francesco Farioli. For that reason, any negotiations over the striker’s departure are, at least for now, on hold until the end of the match at the Estádio dos Arcos.

André Silva’s possible absence in Vila do Conde could also open the door for Mame Niang. The striker, signed this summer from HamKam, could be included in the squad for the second round match of the Primeira Liga.

Under pressure with another striker’s possible arrival

A likely start in Vila do Conde could represent one of Deniz Gul’s last chances to show that he deserves more opportunities at FC Porto and to rule out the possibility of a move during this transfer window. At the same time, the match could also serve as a showcase for the Turk in front of Galatasaray, the club he has once again recently been linked with.

FC Porto are still looking for a centre-forward, given the lack of options in the position. It will be up to Deniz Gul to show that he can be a valid alternative to compete for a place with André Silva and Samu once he returns to the pitch, thereby preventing the signing of another striker.

Santiago Giménez, the Mexican forward who apparently is not part of Ruben Amorim’s plans at AC Milan, has been linked with the Dragons. If that move progresses, it could mark the end of Deniz Gul’s time at the Dragão.

Farioli highlighted his qualities

In the build-up to the match against Alverca, Francesco Farioli underlined Deniz Gul’s potential, although he admitted that the player is still not fully aware of his own abilities.

“Deniz still doesn’t really know how good he can become. He is very powerful and quick, and technically gifted. He needs to find consistency and improve the way he stays connected to the game and contributes to the team. But his potential is immense. He likes to work and improve. Since Samu got injured last season, he showed that he is capable of taking responsibility and was one of our key players in winning the league. Now it depends on him getting back into a position where he can help the team again,” said the Italian.

Deniz Gul joined FC Porto in the summer of 2024 from Hammarby for around €4.5 million. The fee could rise to €5 million depending on certain targets being met. Despite the expectations surrounding his abilities, the striker has yet to show all the potential many believed he had.

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