Something new is happening in Portuguese football. For years, the big clubs there often struggled to compete financially with Europe’s giants. But now, it seems a corner has been turned. Marco Silva, the respected coach of Fulham, pointed out this change recently. He praised the financial power shown by Portugal’s top teams. This is a big shift from just five or ten years ago.
Silva spoke about this after his Fulham squad beat Nottingham Forest 3-1 in a friendly game. The match was played in Faro, helping teams get ready for the Premier League season. Nottingham Forest is managed by Nuno Espírito Santo, another well-known Portuguese coach. Silva noted that Portuguese clubs can now make transfers for sums that were once unheard of. He called this a clear sign of financial muscle.
The Fulham boss believes that Sporting, Benfica, and FC Porto, along with Braga, are all strengthening their teams well. They are finding the best ways to improve their rosters. But don’t ask Silva who will win the 2025/26 Liga Betclic. He said it’s far too early to pick a favorite. The league race is wide open, he thinks.
Silva himself is getting ready for his fifth season leading the London club. He’s happy Fulham kept their main players. Stability is very important for a team, he stressed. For the new season, Fulham wants to add three or four new players. They hope these additions will bring more quality and impact to the squad.
Last season, Fulham set a club record in the Premier League, earning 54 points and finishing 11th. Their goal for this year is simple: do even better. Beating their points record from last season is the clear aim. If they manage that, Fulham will be in a strong league position. This could open doors for other exciting goals, Silva explained.
On another note, Swedish forward Viktor Gyökeres is moving to Arsenal. Silva mentioned that Gyökeres was a crucial player in Portuguese football. Now, everyone waits to see what kind of impact he will have in the English league. It’s a new chapter for the player, and for the leagues he leaves behind.