FC Porto faces challenges in finalizing their Champions League squad due to UEFA regulations. Last season, manager Francesco Farioli had the luxury of registering all players, including ten new signings. However, the upcoming deadline of September 2 at 11:59 p.m. for submitting the squad list may impose restrictions, particularly influenced by player nationalities and potential departures.

UEFA Regulations Impacting Squad Composition

According to UEFA rules, clubs are limited to registering 25 players on List A, with at least eight required to be “locally trained players.” Additionally, no more than four players can be classified as “association-trained.” A locally trained player is defined as one who has been developed by the club and the national association. Currently, FC Porto has several players who fit these criteria, including Diogo Costa, André Silva, João Costa, and Martim Fernandes. However, the situation becomes precarious if players like Moura and Eustáquio depart, as this would necessitate a reduction in the final squad list.

Potential Solutions and Player Movements

In light of these constraints, young midfielder Vasco Sousa could serve as a strategic option. He qualifies as a club-trained player, which could help meet the requirement of eight locally trained players, even if only Cláudio Ramos, Alberto Costa, and João Afonso are included from the Portuguese-trained category. If FC Porto signs a new Portuguese player, Sousa would not be eligible for inclusion. Conversely, if the new signing is foreign, his addition could help maintain the squad size at 25 players.

The current roster includes 16 players who could fill the remaining spots, such as Kiwior, Nehuén Pérez, and Pepê, among others. However, the situation may become more complex if FC Porto pursues additional signings, particularly if they target positions like striker, left-back, and midfielder without acquiring Portuguese players, which could further impact the squad dynamics.