Oskar Pietuszewski back fit and in the fight for a FC Porto spot | OneFootball

After playing a decisive role in winning the 2025/2026 national championship, Oskar Pietuszewski is preparing for the new season with even greater ambitions. At 18, the Polish international has already become one of the most beloved players among Porto’s demanding supporters.

A muscle injury in his right thigh prevented him from taking part in the presentation match of Francesco Farioli’s team, although he followed the game from the bench at the Cidade de Coimbra Stadium. On that occasion, FC Porto beat Torreense 1-0, thanks to a goal from Victor Froholdt, and won the Cândido de Oliveira Super Cup. It was the club’s first trophy of the season and allowed the dragons to move clear at the top of the ranking of clubs with the most titles in Portugal.

The Porto coach is believed to have chosen not to risk using the youngster in the first official match of 2026/2027, but the forward has now fully recovered. Pietuszewski is waiting for an opportunity from Farioli, which could come as early as the home game against Alverca in the opening round of the league.

Against Torreense, the Italian coach deployed William Gomes on the right side of the attack and Pepê on the left wing. With Pietuszewski’s return, the battle for a place in the starting eleven gains a new contender, especially for the position occupied by William. Pepê’s experience, however, continues to be highly valued by Francesco Farioli, who rarely does without the player.

In just half a season at FC Porto, during which he featured in 18 official matches, the Pole scored three goals, against Moreirense, Benfica and Arouca, and provided two assists. The goal in the clássico remains memorable after he left Otamendi sitting on the turf. Also decisive was the pass that set up William Gomes to score in the hard-fought win over Braga, a perfect assist.

Shining in the Champions League

When he arrived at the Dragão in January, Pietuszewski was virtually unknown to most supporters, which raised some doubts among Porto fans. His debut in Guimarães, however, quickly swept those concerns aside. Even so, when making changes to UEFA’s squad list for last season’s Europa League, Farioli decided not to include the young Polish talent, instead choosing the other three winter signings: Thiago Silva, Seko Fofana and Moffi.

FC Porto are now preparing for their debut on Europe’s biggest stage, in the league phase of the Champions League. The competition could provide Pietuszewski with a prime platform to showcase his qualities, both internationally and in domestic competitions. The national championship will remain Porto’s top priority.

During this summer break, the Polish international’s name was linked with several European giants. Even so, the SAD led by André Villas-Boas is not willing to part with a player of such exceptional technical ability. For a particularly demanding season, Pietuszewski presents himself as a possible key figure and an important card in Farioli’s tactical options.

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