Farioli extends deal before Benfica derby: “There’s a real bond” | OneFootball

Francesco Farioli expressed his delight at renewing his contract with FC Porto until 2028. In statements to the club’s media, the coach highlighted the importance of the «Portista Family» and revealed that André Villas-Boas gave the first indication as early as November.

«It’s a great emotion for me and for the coaching staff, because I think it’s an incredible show of faith that the club has decided to give us, by taking this step in our direction and, especially, by taking this step together on our journey. That’s why I think there’s nothing more or better that we could ask for. It’s a fantastic feeling. The desire to keep working together at the same pace, with the same drive and also with the same ambition.»

«To be honest, I don’t think there’s any greater proof. There’s this gesture from the club, but also the timing I believe is a key piece, because the first time the president brought up the subject was in November, saying that within a few weeks the desire to sit down and talk would be there. And from the moment we spoke, a few days before the end of 2025, until we’re here with everything signed… Especially with the same desire, with the same ambition and with an incredible commitment and a great responsibility to represent a club of this size and a club and so many people who, every day, become more and more a part of my family. It’s something absolutely special.»

«There’s a strong connection, or a bond that was born just a few months ago with a leap of faith from both sides. And I think that in these months we’ve gotten to know each other better and it’s something that’s growing every day, through the work and commitment of everyone involved in this project. The coaching staff and I represent one part, a small part in such a large organization, with the work of the president and everyone who is with him. It’s a great show of commitment, a great show of connection, shared responsibility and, especially, the desire to take the next steps together. And yes, I’m very grateful for this.»

Does the new contract change anything?

«If we look at the formalities, of course it’s a step, another year on paper. But above all, for me it means a lot in terms of desire, shared vision, shared feelings, and the ambition and drive that brought us together and keep us together.»

«It’s one of the keys because this signing represents the work of many people, the commitment of many people and the feelings of many people. Here, I represent a small piece in the big puzzle, but for sure the fact that I’ve felt at home since day one – myself, my wife, my children, who are growing up here, immersing themselves in the culture of the city, in the culture of the country – it’s something that’s really growing more and more every day. I’ve mentioned my children several times, how much of Portistas they are. So, I think it’s something really special. Having my family here with me, the coaching staff… A feeling that became a slogan, but the reality is that it’s something that’s really deep inside, something we truly believe in. The last few days in the Algarve I also think have really strengthened this feeling and this connection and I hope, once again with this step together, for something good for ‘La Famiglia Portista’ on our journey.»

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