Zé Pedro on leaving Porto: Wanted a new challenge for more minutes | OneFootball

Zé Pedro spoke for the first time about his departure from FC Porto. The 28-year-old Portuguese central defender began by expressing his satisfaction with the transfer to Cagliari, in Serie A: «Serie A is a league that has always captivated me. It has been a different experience, a good experience. I found a pleasant environment, and the people have been very welcoming, both within the club and among the fans. The people of the city quickly showed affection, making me feel at home», he stated to the newspaper A Bola.

He also explained the reasons that led him to change clubs during the summer transfer window: «These are distinct moments for the club. This year, there was a significant investment in the squad. With the signing of three players for my position, plus the purchase option for Nehuén Pérez, which was activated, it completed a list of four central defenders where I would be somewhat distant from having the minutes I envision. It's true that I was at my club of the heart, but I like to be useful and feel part of something to improve and help the team. I sought a different space to have those minutes because I knew the difficulty I would eventually face at FC Porto. That's when, close to the end of the market, the opportunity to leave arose, and the last-minute arrival of Kiwior ended up unlocking the situation».

The player also assured that he is happy with the performance of the blue and white team under the guidance of coach Francesco Farioli: «With great pleasure. Not only because I started the season there and have true friends at FC Porto, but also as a fan, because now I've taken on that role again. I am truly pleased because it is a part of me. We are in first place, with a considerably comfortable margin at this stage of the championship. The football being played and the atmosphere in the squad and in the stands has been fantastic to see. Without a doubt, I am very happy for them and for the Porto nation».

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