Martim Fernandes set to start at left-back against Benfica | OneFootball

Martim Fernandes has started only two of FC Porto’s eight matches this season, but all signs suggest that, barring any physical issue, he will be in the starting lineup for the third time on Sunday. After beginning on the bench against Casa Pia, a match in which he came on in the 80th minute, the 20-year-old defender is expected to regain his place in the starting eleven for the clash against Benfica, pushing Francisco Moura over to the left flank.

In Rio Maior, Francesco Farioli opted for Alberto Costa and the number 74 shirt to fill the full-back positions. However, for the showdown with their red-clad rivals, Martim Fernandes appears as the main candidate to play on the left side. Francisco Moura played the full 90 minutes in the 4-1 win over Casa Pia last Saturday and has gradually been regaining the confidence he lost in the second half of last season. The process has been gradual, however. The left-back was heavily sought after in the summer transfer window, but remained at the Dragão because the interested clubs did not meet the figures set by the SAD. Zaidu’s injury at the end of August also ruled out a possible departure, despite the signing of Souza.

As for the Brazilian arrival, on loan from Tottenham, he has yet to feature in an official match in the 2026/27 season. Although he played in the friendly against Académica on Sunday morning, the player still needs a bit more time to fully absorb Farioli’s ideas. The break for international fixtures could prove important in that process.

Regarding Martim Fernandes, the FC Porto coach has already shown on several occasions that he relies on the versatility of the young Portuguese international when the level of difficulty rises. The most recent example came last week, when the number 52 shirt started at left-back in the home match against Manchester City, in the Dragons’ Champions League opener. Despite the favorable outcome for the English side, Martim delivered a solid display against Phil Foden. In March, after nearly a month out injured, the Olival academy product was also in the starting eleven that drew 2-2 with Benfica at the Luz, occupying the left side of the defense.

Farioli has also been carefully managing the player’s physical condition. Martim Fernandes has plantar fasciitis in his right foot, a persistent issue that could compromise his use in competition if he is subjected to too much workload. For the Italian coach, the priority is to have the defender fully recovered and available.

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