Zaidu Sanusi: What FC Porto coach said about Super Eagles defender’s injury return

Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi is closing in on a return to regular action for FC Porto after recovering from injury, but head coach Francesco Farioli has reminded him that competition for the left-back position remains strong.

Sanusi suffered a right adductor injury during Porto’s 3-0 victory over Académico de Viseu on August 29. The Nigerian international was forced off in the first half, with the club initially fearing a lengthy absence.

After missing several matches, the 29-year-old returned to the squad for Porto’s Champions League clash against Real Betis last Wednesday, having been cleared to resume training without restrictions. Farioli confirmed before that game that Sanusi was available if needed.

What Farioli said about Zaidu’s return

Speaking ahead of Porto’s Champions League meeting with PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday, Farioli discussed his options at left-back, explaining that Sanusi, Brazilian defender João Souza and Francisco Moura were at different stages of their preparations.

“Zaidu is returning from injury, Souza arrived later and is gaining the necessary connection and confidence to be able to play, and Francisco Moura has been with us from the beginning and has been complying with what he has been asked,” the 37-year-old said as revealed by Porto’s official website.

Farioli added that he was pleased to have three players available for the position, stressing that each would have a role to play during the campaign.

“We have the luxury of having three players who can play, who will play and who are in the service of the Club. I’m sure all the players will play an important role in the season.”

The comments suggest that Sanusi’s recovery has given Farioli another option, but do not guarantee the Nigerian an immediate return to the starting line-up.

Can Sanusi reclaim his starting spot?

Sanusi began the season as Porto’s first-choice left-back before his injury disrupted his progress. During his absence, Moura and other options were used on the left side of the defence, while Souza continued adapting after arriving from Tottenham.

Moura’s position came under scrutiny following Porto’s 3-2 defeat to Real Betis, in which he was involved in the decisive penalty incident. Sanusi’s return now gives Farioli another option as Porto look to strengthen their defensive performances.

However, the coach’s remarks indicate that selection will depend on each player’s readiness and contribution rather than reputation alone.

Porto host PSV tomorrow at Estadio do Dragao in the Champions League league phase, having lost their previous two UCL games this campaign to Real Betis and Manchester City, despite winning all of their domestic fixtures this season.

Whether or not Sanusi starts or features from the bench remains a decision for Farioli, but the defender’s return gives the Portuguese champions depth at left-back.