Martim's fitness record could push FC Porto for a right-back | OneFootball

FC Porto remains focused on signing a left-back and a striker, although it is also keeping an eye on developments on the right side of the defense. The new injury to Martim Fernandes, which prevented him from being included in the squad for last Sunday’s match against Rio Ave, justifies that assessment. The 20-year-old defender has Francesco Farioli’s trust, but the succession of physical problems is beginning to cause concern.

Martim Fernandes suffered a muscle injury in his left thigh during the final training session before the trip to Vila do Conde. For now, he remains doubtful for the match against Arouca in the 3rd round of the Primeira Liga, scheduled for next Sunday night.

After the win in Arcos, Francesco Farioli gave the squad two days off. Training is due to resume this Tuesday, so FC Porto is expected to update its medical bulletin in the coming hours, including the situation of Martim Fernandes.

The possible absence of the youngster developed at Olival significantly reduces the options for the right side of the defense. Alberto Costa recently returned to action after an injury and played 20 minutes against Rio Ave, but the solution found by Farioli was to adapt Nehuén Pérez.

The Argentine center-back, who was sidelined last season due to a long-term injury, delivered a positive performance and scored one of the goals in the win with a header. Defensively, he recorded two clearances and one interception, although he offered little to the team going forward, which is understandable given that he is not a natural full-back.

Alberto Costa’s recovery should nonetheless allow the former Juventus player to start in the return to the Estádio do Dragão. Even so, Martim Fernandes’ condition continues to be a concern for Farioli.

A worrying track record

The right-back’s medical history demands attention, especially considering what happened over the last two seasons. Last season, Martim Fernandes featured in 33 of FC Porto’s 53 matches and missed 11 due to injuries to the lateral ligaments in his knee, plantar fasciitis, and an ankle sprain. In total, he was sidelined for 74 days.

In the previous season, the Valongo-born player took the field in 37 of the Dragons’ 52 matches. During that period, he also dealt with muscle problems that kept him out of eight games over 36 days.

Given this record, FC Porto may consider signing another right-back during the current transfer window. That possibility, however, is not currently the priority for André Villas-Boas and Francesco Farioli.

After Rodrigo Mora’s departure was confirmed, the blue-and-white SAD is expected to focus its efforts on signing a center-forward — Santiago Giménez is the leading name — and a left-back. Souza has been identified and has already been the subject of negotiations to fill the spot of Francisco Moura, who is also expected to leave the Dragão.

Martim Fernandes still has four years left on his contract with FC Porto and is protected by an €80 million release clause. Developed almost entirely at Olival, he made his first-team debut in October 2023, under then-coach Sérgio Conceição, in the trip to Vilar de Perdizes for the third round of the Portuguese Cup.

The full-back went on to make five more appearances for FC Porto in 2023/24 and became a permanent member of the first team the following season, when Vítor Bruno took charge. He then continued to be part of the squad under Martín Anselmi.

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