FC Porto is stressing the critical role of squad depth and collective effort ahead of its upcoming match against Utrecht, a message reinforced by winger Borja Sainz’s recent match-winning performance as a substitute.
Sainz, the Spanish winger, and coach Francesco Farioli addressed the media to preview Thursday’s game, scheduled for 5:45 p.m. local time.
Sainz indicated the team has “worked very well” this week in preparation.
He anticipates a challenging match against Utrecht, similar to their prior Europa League fixture against Nottingham Forest, which resulted in a loss.
Despite that setback, Sainz noted the team is in good spirits following a difficult victory over Sporting Braga.
He was a substitute in the game against Sporting Braga but scored the decisive goal.
Sainz emphasized that both starting players and those coming off the bench are vital to the team’s success.
“Every time someone comes off the bench, they also add something. That is a good sign for the team,” Sainz stated, attributing this philosophy to the coach and technical staff.
He remained diplomatic about a potential starting position against Utrecht, deferring to coach Farioli’s decisions.
Addressing a recent series of less favorable individual performances, Sainz downplayed the importance of potential criticism.
He asserted that he focuses daily on the instructions from the coach and staff and the team’s overall performance.
“I will not give it much importance because [criticism] is not what feeds me. I don’t think it’s important. Ultimately, I focus on the team,” Sainz added.