Farioli expects tough Utrecht test: “Quality out wide, top striker” | OneFootball

Francesco Farioli presented the preview of the match between Utrecht and FC Porto, emphasizing in a press conference the importance of returning to victories in the Europa League.

«It is a team that, if we look at today, we might have a bad impression. Last season they finished in fourth place and maintained their structure and players. They have good players, a lot of quality on the flanks, and a great forward. A good coach with a lot of experience. It will be a game that will demand a lot of effort from our side. We have to be prepared and work hard».

«Gift from the Utrecht coach? I brought some wine, I wanted him to drink it before the game to have less quality in tactics. Last year, the games were tough, I didn't get any victory against Utrecht and we want a win».

«Fábio Veríssimo case? Regarding the noise, the team is on another page, another book, which is the Europa League. We put it aside. The club's statement was clear about what is happening. I agree with every word. I have complete confidence in the president and the management to handle this situation. Everything will be resolved for the good of Portuguese football».

«Zaidu? Unfortunately, in the League, we can only choose 20 players and we have Martim Fernandes who can play on the left and right. Tomorrow Zaidu will start as a starter».

«Influence of the calendar on teams? For us, only tomorrow's game counts. We had a tough game against Braga, many kilometers covered and very demanding. We will deal with this situation, but start with the best possible eleven to try for qualification».

«Return? What would make me proud would be to have given the title to Ajax. The memories stay with me and with the people I worked with. The lost title will remain forever, but the memories will last forever. Let's talk about tomorrow's game and focus on the present. In Portugal, we are faster in press conferences, I had already warned».

«Ajax? Nothing to comment. My appreciation and feeling I have with the club is felt, I watch the games as a fan. It doesn't seem polite to comment. I will watch a bit of their game at dinner, but then I will prepare for the important game».

«Arrival in Amsterdam? I took some photos from the plane, it was the first night flight. I saw many illuminated fields, it says a lot about people's passion for football. It was nice to see the stadium with lights on for a Champions League night. I love the city. Change is part of our job. Our life happens at the training center. I miss more the people I worked with. I brought my walk to tour the city only the day before leaving. We were busy before».

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