Pedro Sousa: “If Porto keep up this form, they could win the Europa League” | OneFootball

Pedro Sousa Believes in FC Porto as a Europa League Contender

FC Porto is experiencing a moment of great competitive consistency, and this is beginning to reflect not only internally but also in the external perception of its European potential. For Pedro Sousa, a sports journalist, the possibility of the Dragons winning the Europa League this season is real—as long as the performance level is maintained and squad management is well executed.

A Pressing Porto Recognized by Opponents

In the analyzed statements, Pedro Sousa highlights the intensity and constant pressure that FC Porto has imposed in the national championship, emphasizing that even opponents recognize the quality of the work being done. This internal competitive superiority is, for the journalist, a clear indicator that Porto can carry this performance to the European stage.

On an international level, the commentator places the Dragons in a select group of contenders for the final victory, alongside clubs like Lyon, Aston Villa, Real Betis, and other outsiders. For Pedro Sousa, if FC Porto maintains its current standard and successfully integrates the winter reinforcements, it has all the conditions to go far—and even win.

Immediate Reinforcements and Squad Depth

One of the most emphasized points is the market policy adopted by the management led by André Villas-Boas. Contrary to a medium-term investment logic, FC Porto clearly bet on players ready for immediate performance, reinforcing key positions and increasing internal competitiveness.

With an increasingly deep bench and options like Gabri Veiga, Alan Varela, and new reinforcements in the integration process, coach Francesco Farioli gains room to manage efforts and bet on rotation without loss of quality—a decisive factor when discussing the possibility of tackling two major competitions simultaneously.

Championship Remains a Priority

Despite the European optimism, Pedro Sousa is clear about the priorities: the national championship will always be the main focus. Direct entry into the Champions League is strategic, both sportingly and financially, and conditions any future decision.

Even so, the journalist reminds that the European ranking can benefit Portugal, opening space for more teams in UEFA competitions in the coming seasons. In this context, a strong campaign by FC Porto in the Europa League would have an impact that goes beyond the club, benefiting Portuguese football as a whole.

Defensive Strength and Competitive Maturity

Another central argument is the defensive solidity of the Dragons. Pedro Sousa considers FC Porto the best defense in the championship, both from a collective and individual standpoint, which is reflected in the ability to control games even when relinquishing ball possession. The example against Rangers FC is paradigmatic: less ball, but total control of the result and the tie.

This competitive maturity—winning even when playing less well—is, for the commentator, a typical characteristic of teams that can aspire to European titles.

A Serious Contender, but with Warnings

Pedro Sousa concludes that FC Porto is, at this moment, a very serious contender for winning the Europa League. Still, he issues a warning: never underestimate other Portuguese clubs, recalling the historical path of SC Braga in European competitions.

In summary, between the quality of the coach, a well-directed market, squad depth, and a very marked competitive identity, FC Porto enters the decisive phase of the season with legitimate ambitions. The final response will depend on the management of priorities—but, as Pedro Sousa argues, talent and conditions to dream are not lacking.

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