Nehuén Pérez shines in FC Porto’s defensive shake-up | OneFootball

Nehuén Pérez's debut season fell short of expectations, and at the start of FC Porto's 2025/26 season, there was uncertainty about his status, especially after the defensive overhaul with the departures of Marcano, Tiago Djaló, and Otávio, and the arrivals of Bednarek and Prpic.

After two matches under the guidance of Francesco Farioli, the initial signs are encouraging for Nehuén Pérez. In both games, he started and justified the trust placed in him, delivering a performance that helped the team keep a clean sheet.

This new facet opens the door to a second chance at FC Porto and allows him to assert himself against renewed competition, at a time when a new reinforcement option also arises: Jakub Kiwior.

The Polish international from Arsenal is on the radar of Porto's management, and if he transfers to the Dragons, it would be a significant signing that could completely change the options for the blue and white defense.

While this change has not yet materialized, Nehuén Pérez is accumulating arguments to secure his place definitively. Those who followed his performance in 2024/25 and observed the first two challenges of 2025/26 notice transformations in various aspects, directly reflected in the numbers.

In the defensive chapter, where his harmony with Bednarek stands out, the Argentine has improved his statistics, with increases in the average of clearances, tackles won, and ball recoveries.

Moreover, the new number 18 of the Dragons has been distinguished in playmaking, showing greater participation and a more considered and less erratic attitude.

Compared to the averages in the 2024/25 championship, Nehuén Pérez has increased the total number of passes, accurate passes, and the percentage of successful deliveries. The differences are noticeable.

The high expectations surrounding Nehuén Pérez are largely linked to the investment made by FC Porto in his signing. Initially, the Dragons paid Udinese 4.1 million euros for a one-season loan, which was later followed by the option for a permanent transfer, valued at an additional 13.3 million euros. In total, Nehuén Pérez cost 17.4 million euros, placing him among the most expensive signings, which now seeks justification.

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