The air around the club’s training grounds feels a little heavier this week. FC Porto just shared some unwelcome news. Alberto Costa, a player who has truly shone this season, is now sidelined. He suffered a muscle injury in his right thigh.
The full extent of Costa’s injury isn’t clear yet. This means his presence in upcoming matches is very much in doubt. It’s a blow for the team, especially with his recent form. But he isn’t alone on the treatment table. Stephen Eustáquio returned from national team duty with discomfort in his left knee. He is now getting treatment and doing recovery training. Martim Fernandes is also working through his own recovery, focusing on treatment and gym sessions. Gabri Veiga is taking part in conditioned training as he works his way back.
These injuries mean new faces are getting their chance. Dinis Rodrigues and Kaio Henrique, both from FC Porto B, trained with the senior squad on Sunday morning. They were under the watchful eye of Francesco Farioli. This is all part of getting ready for the next league match. The team faces Nacional in the 5th round of the Liga Portugal Betclic. That game is set for Saturday at 6 PM.
Many other players are away, representing their countries on the international stage. Diogo Costa is with Portugal. Jakub Kiwior and Bednarek are playing for Poland. Victor Froholdt joined the Denmark squad. Deniz Gül is with Turkey. Alan Varela is away with Argentina. Pablo Rosário represents the Dominican Republic. Dominik Prpic is with Croatia’s U21 team. Rodrigo Mora is playing for Portugal U21.
The schedule keeps moving forward. The club announced a “training with game” session for Monday. They will play against Lusitânia de Lourosa, a team from the second division. It’s a clear sign that preparations never stop, no matter the challenges.