Oskar Pietuszewski back in the running for a starting spot at FC Porto | OneFootball

After playing a decisive role in winning the 2025/2026 national championship, Oskar Pietuszewski is preparing for the new season with even greater ambitions. At just 18 years old, the Polish international has already become one of the most beloved players among Porto’s demanding fans.

A muscle injury in his right thigh prevented him from taking part in the presentation match of Francesco Farioli’s team, although he followed the game from the bench at the Cidade de Coimbra Stadium. On that occasion, FC Porto beat Torreense 1-0 thanks to a goal from Victor Froholdt and won the Cândido de Oliveira Super Cup. It was the first trophy of the season and allowed the Dragons to move clear at the top of the ranking of clubs with the most titles in Portugal.

The Porto coach appears to have chosen not to risk using the youngster in the first official match of 2026/2027, but the forward has now fully recovered. Pietuszewski is waiting for an opportunity from Farioli, which could come as early as the home match against Alverca in the opening round of the league.

Against Torreense, the Italian coach deployed William Gomes on the right side of the attack and Pepê on the left wing. With Pietuszewski’s return, the battle for a place in the starting eleven gains a new contender, especially for the position occupied by William. Pepê’s experience, however, continues to be highly valued by Francesco Farioli, who rarely does without him.

In just half a season at FC Porto, during which he featured in 18 official matches, the Pole scored three goals — against Moreirense, Benfica and Arouca — and provided two assists. The goal in the clássico remains memorable after he sent Otamendi to the ground. Equally decisive was the pass that set up William Gomes in the hard-fought win over Braga, a perfect assist.

Shining in the Champions League

When he arrived at the Dragão in January, Pietuszewski was virtually unknown to most fans, which raised some doubts among the Porto faithful. His debut in Guimarães, however, quickly put those concerns to rest. Even so, when making changes to UEFA’s squad list for last season’s Europa League, Farioli decided not to include the young Polish talent, instead selecting the other three winter signings: Thiago Silva, Seko Fofana and Moffi.

FC Porto are now preparing for their debut on Europe’s biggest stage, in the league phase of the Champions League. The competition could offer Pietuszewski a privileged platform to showcase his qualities, both internationally and in domestic competitions. The national championship will remain Porto’s top priority.

During this transfer window, the Polish international’s name has been linked with several European giants. Even so, the board led by André Villas-Boas is not willing to let go of a player with exceptional technical ability. In what promises to be a particularly demanding season, Pietuszewski presents himself as a possible key figure and an important option in Farioli’s tactical plans.

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