The list of managers linked with Chelsea since Liam Rosenior’s sacking is certainly in the double digits, and one of those is Porto’s title-winning manager, Francesco Farioli.
Before the weekend just gone, Farioli watched his Porto side lift the Liga NOS trophy aloft. A huge moment in the Italian manager’s career, having lost out on the Eredivisie title with Ajax on goal difference.
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Three wins every four games is remarkable.
Described as “revolutionary” by Porto president Andre Villas-Boas, Farioli has sparkled in Portugal, catching the eye of Chelsea’s decision-makers. But a move to land Farioli was always deemed unlikely.
But with the league secured, Farioli watched his Porto side lose to AFS on the weekend. AFS are rock bottom in Liga NOS, yet they beat Porto 3-1. Farioli spoke after the match, hinting he’s going nowhere.
Francesco Farioli is already looking to next season with FC Porto
The former Nice and Karagumruk manager has made his name across European football, having initially worked as a goalkeeper coach under Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi in Italy, notably at Sassuolo.
Speaking after his side’s dismal defeat to AFS, Farioli told a press conference that the defeat is a stark reminder to Porto’s squad ahead of next season. His view of next season hints he is not going to leave.
FC Porto V CD Tondela - Primeira Liga
Photo by Miguel Lemos/NurPhoto via Getty Images
“The focus was there. In the first half, if we look at the three times they got into our box, they punished us. We created a lot, but the reality is this: if you drop in aggression or attention to small details.
“In the end, you pay the price, and this has to be a very good reminder for the next game and for next season. We have to move forward and try to finish the season with 88 points, in front of our fans.”
Andre Villas-Boas stance on Chelsea’s interest in Farioli
In April, it was reported that Chelsea were pushing hard to convince Farioli about a potential move to Stamford Bridge. Farioli currently has a contract with the Portuguese giants until the summer of 2028.
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Chelsea have even made an approach for Farioli, but the president and former Chelsea boss Villas-Boas has rejected it. Villas-Boas is desperate to keep Farioli and it appears that Farioli is ready to stay put.
Aside from Farioli, it appears Xabi Alonso is now the favourite to take over from Calum McFarlane while Marco Silva and Andoni Iraola continue to be linked with the Blues. Plenty of other names are linked.
Indeed, it is reported that Chelsea have internally discussed the names of 20 managers with a view to appointing a successor. Nothing is expected until after the season finishes, with three games to play.
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