Francesco Farioli blocked Zaidu’s January exit

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Portal dos Dragões

·18 February 2026

Francesco Farioli blocked Zaidu’s January exit

Zaidu returned to FC Porto’s starting eleven after two and a half months of absence and was in the lineup against Nacional, delivering a positive performance that earned high praise from Francesco Farioli. The Italian coach highlighted the defensive solidity of the 28-year-old Nigerian, as well as his offensive willingness to support the team.

Despite having started only seven times, Zaidu continues to enjoy the coach’s confidence, who blocked his departure in the last winter transfer window. According to Record, faced with interest from some clubs in signing him, Francesco Farioli reaffirmed his intention to keep the full-back in the squad, believing he can be useful in the final stretch of the season, despite competition from Francisco Moura, Martim Fernandes and Jakub Kiwior.