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

Pedro Sousa Believes in an FC Porto Capable of Winning the Europa League

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

A Pressing Porto, Recognized by Opponents

In his statements, Pedro Sousa highlights the intensity and constant pressure that FC Porto has imposed in the national league, emphasizing that even their 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 onto the European stage.

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

Reinforcements for the Immediate and Squad Depth

One of the most emphasized points is the transfer policy adopted by the management led by André Villas-Boas. Unlike a medium-term investment strategy, FC Porto has clearly bet on players ready for immediate impact, strengthening key positions and increasing internal competitiveness.

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

The League Remains the Priority

Despite the European optimism, Pedro Sousa is clear about the priorities: the national league will always be the main focus. Direct entry into the Champions League is strategic, both from a sporting and financial perspective, and will influence any future decisions.

Even so, the journalist notes that the European ranking could benefit Portugal, opening up more spots for 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 league, both collectively and individually, which is reflected in their ability to control games even when they give up possession. The example against Rangers FC is paradigmatic: less possession, but total control of the result and the tie.

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

A Serious Contender, but with Cautions

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

In summary, between the quality of the coach, a well-targeted transfer market, squad depth, and a very strong competitive identity, FC Porto enters the decisive phase of the season with legitimate ambitions. The final answer will depend on the management of priorities—but, as Pedro Sousa argues, there is no shortage of talent and conditions to dream.

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