Next up: Santa Clara, and Farioli dips into the B team
Farioli has called up two players from Porto B as the squad begins preparing for the home match against Santa Clara (2). It's early days in the build-up, so reading too much into the selection isn't worth it yet. But it signals he's keeping a close eye on the academy pipeline.
Referee and VAR rated "unsatisfactory" after Porto vs Sporting
The officials from the Taça de Portugal match between FC Porto and Sporting have been handed an "unsatisfactory" rating (1). That's a formal acknowledgement that the performance wasn't good enough. Whether it changes anything on the pitch is another matter, but at least someone held them accountable.
Transfer rumours: Barcelona superstar and a Polish reinforcement
Two names are floating around in the transfer space. Porto are reportedly targeting a high-profile Barcelona player, described as an "absolute superstar" by Dutch outlet VoetbalPrimeur (4). Take that with a pinch of salt — it's a vague claim with no name attached. Separately, Porto are said to be looking to strengthen their Polish contingent with a significant signing (5). Again, no confirmed name. Both stories are unconfirmed, but worth keeping an eye on.
Porto B host Benfica B in a decisive Liga 2 round
Porto B face Benfica B in what could be a pivotal round for the Liga 2 promotion picture (3). Promotion gets decided on Saturday. Worth a watch if you care about who's coming through the ranks.
Fan reactions
The main talking point on the subreddit right now is access to the Superior Norte and Sul stands for the Santa Clara match on the 16th. Fans are frustrated by the ongoing TAD suspension of those sections and are waiting to find out if the appeal has changed anything before matchday. There's also the usual pre-match press roundup doing the rounds. Follow the discussion here.