Francesco Farioli Set to Take Over as FC Porto Head Coach

Francesco Farioli, the respected Italian coach who left Ajax this summer, is about to become FC Porto’s new head coach. The 36-year-old should sign a two-year deal at the Estádio do Dragão this week. The final documents are being prepared, and official steps will happen soon.

WHAT HAPPENED?

FC Porto are quickly hiring Francesco Farioli as their new manager after ending Martín Anselmi’s six-month term. Farioli, last season’s Ajax manager, reached a tight Eredivisie title race, narrowly missing out to PSV by one point on the final day. Before Ajax, he coached OGC Nice in Ligue 1, achieving a fifth-place finish and Europa League qualification. Known for possession football and intense pressing, Farioli’s journey spans Turkey, France, and the Netherlands, building a modern tactical approach.

FC PORTO’S RECENT PERFORMANCE

FC Porto finished third in the 2024/25 Primeira Liga season, behind champions Sporting CP and second-placed Benfica. Despite reaching the Champions League knockout rounds, a disappointing domestic campaign led to change. The following fixture is the Primeira Liga opener in August. Porto aims to close the gap, having ended last season five points behind Sporting and three behind Benfica, while only two points ahead of fourth-place Braga.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR FARIOLO AND PORTO?

Farioli’s initial task involves instilling his playing style during pre-season and preparing for the Primeira Liga opening match. Fans await his potential to enhance Porto’s title contention next season and strengthen their European campaign based on last season’s Champions League performance. Renowned for quick adaptation and team development, Farioli faces high expectations for his new era at the Dragão.