Samu on Porto’s start: “Farioli has given us a new mindset” | OneFootball

Samu, FC Porto forward, assessed the start of the season for the Dragons, who lead the league with 31 points, three more than Sporting and six above Benfica.

«There is always pressure from the fans, but I am also demanding of myself and always want to do better than the previous season. It has been a very exciting season, going well, partly thanks to the coach [Farioli], who instilled a new mentality in us», he mentioned in an interview with Europa Press, also referring to his moment in the national team.

Samu believes he can be called up by Luis de la Fuente for the 2026 World Cup and accepts that he might not be the first choice.

«I know what I do well. The numbers don't lie, and in the end, it doesn't matter if I'm the first or second choice. What you want is to play and be important. I'm still young and for that reason, I understand. There are also many great forwards in the national team and great competition», he commented, admitting that in the locker room the focus is only on the short term.

«I know there is a lot of competition, but I always try to give my best to the group. For me, it will always be an honor to come and contribute. I know that if the coach brings me, it's because he sees that I'm doing things well at the club [FC Porto], even though I'm in the Portuguese league», he stated.

The forward also mentioned that the Spanish coach asks him to «not invent» and simply replicate what he does at FC Porto.

«The good ones have to adapt to all contexts. But when I have more space, I feel more comfortable because I can bring out my strengths. Debut in the national team? Very happy and grateful for the opportunity given by the coach, the technical team, and my teammates. It was a dream I've had since I was little and I'm happy because it was a victory. It was a good game, although I wasn't lucky enough to score», he said.

Samu highlighted that he «learns a lot» from his colleagues in the national team, praising Álvaro Morata's experience. Faced with the possibility of Spain being a favorite in the 2026 World Cup, he remained cautious.

«These are things from the press and people. But I think playing with Spain right now commands respect. We are European champions and have gone many games without losing», he mentioned, also talking about the friendship he maintains with Lamine Yamal.

«We know he is a young man going through a lot at the same time. The situations between Barcelona and the national team don't affect us. We are focused. If he is there, it's better for us because it makes us better», he concluded.

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