Revealed: Why Zaidu Sanusi turned down Premier League move in January

FC Porto head coach Francesco Farioli has revealed why Super Eagles full-back Zaidu Sanusi didn’t make a move in the January transfer window, Afrik Foot reports.

The 28-year-old has had a tough year at Porto as he saw his minutes in the first team diminish after an ACL injury he sustained in 2024.

Prior to the AFCON 2025 tournament in Morocco, Zaidu featured in just eleven games for the 2004 UEFA Champions League winners.

Under Eric Chelle, the ex-Santa Clara defender started the games against Tanzania, but effectively lost his place to Bruno Onyemaechi, effectively ending his AFCON tournament after just one game.

Porto coach reveals why Zaidu Sanusi didn’t make a January move

Upon his return to Portugal, his playing time was reduced, and he was linked with a move to Leeds United.

He’d eventually make his first appearance of the year two weeks into February when the winter transfer window had closed.

In the past few weeks, he’s become a regular again, and the Porto coach was pleased with how the Nigerian has thrived despite competing with two other full-backs.

“It’s a matter of management,” Francesco Farioli said about Zaidu’s improved gametime in quotes revealed by One Football.

“He had a good game, yes. Before, we wanted to bring back Moura, who had a good game against Sporting.

“In the league, only eight players can be on the bench and Martim Fernandes can play on both sides. I am happy with Zaidu.

“There was a good possibility of him moving to the Premier League. I talked to him, asked what he wanted to do, if he was happy here, because in the first part of the season he had a few minutes.

“But he always maintained a great ability to train and responded that he was very happy here having a role in the group, with the desire to compete in the three competitions.

“He waited for his opportunity and it came shortly after. He gave me the confidence to put him on the field and he is progressing well.

“He is one of the examples of this team, has an incredible attitude, and is loved by the fans.

“At the Dragão, when he touches the ball, you can hear a different atmosphere,” the former OGC Nice concluded.

FC Porto are currently top of the Liga Portugal while still holding their ground in the UEFA Europa League.