Diogo Fernandes set to leave FC Porto for regular game time | OneFootball

Diogo Fernandes’ path seems to point toward an exit from the Dragão, in an outcome seen as natural given this stage of his career and the need to rack up regular playing time. The arrival of João Afonso, signed from Santa Clara and initially integrated into the first-team squad but expected to feature for the B team, further reduces the goalkeeper’s room to establish himself. For now, Diogo Fernandes is expected to report for the B team’s preseason on Monday, until there is a clear decision on his next step.

A place in the first team is, in fact, all but closed off: even with the uncertainty surrounding a possible transfer of Diogo Costa, everything suggests that if the first-choice keeper leaves, FC Porto will return to the market, keeping Cláudio Ramos and João Costa as trusted options for Francesco Farioli.

Born in Braga in 2005, Diogo Fernandes joined FC Porto in 2018 after coming through SC Braga. At Dragon Force, he quickly made his mark, signing his first professional contract in 2021 and renewing in 2024 through to 2028, a sign of the club’s confidence in his development.

His talent became evident at under-19 level, where in the 2023/24 season he was first choice and even provided an assist against Lusitânia de Lourosa. Even so, it was in the Youth League that he stood out most, helping the team finish as the best side in the group stage and playing a decisive role in the round of 16 by saving two penalties against AZ Alkmaar, then the European champions, securing qualification for the Final Four.

His step up to senior football came in February 2024, with his debut for the B team in Liga 2 against Leixões. Last season summed up his journey well: he finished as the fourth goalkeeper in the national championship-winning squad and took part in the title celebrations in Aliados, showing his integration within the group. Although he did not log any official minutes for the first team, his use was at one point considered.

In the B team, he began as first choice, but an injury and some mistakes led coach João Brandão to rely on the experience of João Costa, also in an attempt to bring emotional balance to a very young and inexperienced group. Even so, his value was recognized by Farioli, who kept him close to the first team’s work. The season ended with two standout moments: winning the national title and victory in the Maurice Revello Tournament in Toulon, where he started the opening match and the final, won 2-0 against Tunisia.

At 21 and under contract until 2028, Diogo Fernandes now needs to play regularly to continue taking steps forward in establishing himself. In that sense, a departure is seen as a natural progression, with Liga Portugal and Liga 2 emerging as the most likely destinations, without ruling out a move abroad.

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