FC Porto's Brazilian signings Gabriel Mec and Souza could finally make their debuts in a friendly against Deportivo La Coruña on Friday. The opportunity arises as the squad deals with several absences, particularly in defence, and manager Francesco Farioli looks for options.
The pair were signed for the season but have yet to take the pitch in official matches, having been on the bench for games against Casa Pia and Benfica. Gabriel Mec, an 18-year-old forward bought from Grêmio for 11 million euros, and Souza, a 20-year-old left-back on loan from Tottenham, are the only first-team reinforcements yet to feature. The defender is registered for the Champions League, unlike his teammate.
Defensive context
FC Porto's defensive situation creates room for experimentation. Zaidu is recovering from a right adductor injury and Martim Fernandes, a natural right-back, is dealing with a left calf contusion. This leaves Souza as the only available left-back at present. Francisco Moura is already training without limitations, but the need to rotate is clear, especially with the next official match away to Marítimo on 10 October.
Francesco Farioli has been working with both players on their adaptation process. "The Italian has been working with both, who are adapting to a new reality," the coach said. Regarding Gabriel Mec, Farioli noted that "the youngster who cost the Porto SAD coffers 11 million euros may need more time to become a regular option in the team."
The friendly at Riazor is seen as an ideal occasion for the two to show their worth. With several absences due to physical issues or international commitments, their chances of playing in Corunha are strong. FC Porto enters this meeting after a 3-1 win over Deportivo just days ago, on 2 October, and leads the Primeira Liga with 21 points.
A potential debut would serve to give the players competitive rhythm before the return to official action. The aim is for them to enter the rotation for the busier part of the schedule, which includes the trip to Seville to face Betis on 14 October, four days after the visit to Barreiros.
More detail at SAPO
