Souza and Gabriel Mec find at the Riazor a stage to make their case | OneFootball

Gabriel Mec and Souza, the two Brazilian players signed by FC Porto in the final days of the summer transfer window, are still waiting to make their official debut in blue and white. The 18-year-old winger arrived on a permanent deal from Grêmio, while the 20-year-old left-back joined on loan from Tottenham. Both have been prepared by Francesco Farioli to become part of the team’s options.

Both have already been named on the bench for the matches against Casa Pia and Benfica. Souza was also included in the squad against Moreirense and Manchester City, but neither of the new signings has been used yet. The Italian coach believes both are going through a period of adaptation to a new reality.

In the case of the player on loan from the London club, the opportunity may come sooner. Francisco Moura is currently the only fully available left-back, as Zaidu is recovering from a muscle injury to the adductor in his right thigh. Meanwhile, Martim Fernandes, naturally a right-back, is dealing with a calf injury in his left leg.

Besides facing less immediate competition, Souza is registered for the Champions League, which allows him to feature in another competition. After the 0-2 defeat to Manchester City, FC Porto travel to Seville to face Betis on October 14, four days after the visit to Barreiros. Developed at Santos, the full-back is seen by Farioli as a possible option for the starting eleven in a position that was a priority to strengthen during the summer.

As for Gabriel Mec, Farioli believes the young winger, signed for €11 million, may need more time before establishing himself as a regular choice. The player is still adapting to the team’s demands and playing style, and was left out of FC Porto’s Champions League squad.

Gabriel Mec and Souza are the only signings brought in for the first team in 2026/27 who have yet to play any official minutes. João Afonso has also not played for the first team, but he has been the starting goalkeeper for the B team.

Friday’s friendly at the Riazor against Deportivo appears to be an opportunity for the two Brazilians to show their qualities and try to break into the rotation. With several absences caused by injuries and international duty, Souza and Mec have a good chance of being used in A Coruña.

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