Chris Smalling: "I'm coming in with a winning mentality"

Chris Smalling has officially joined FC Porto. The experienced 36-year-old English centre-back has signed a one-year deal with the Dragons and will wear the number 6 shirt under manager Francesco Farioli. Speaking for the first time in blue and white, the former England international expressed his excitement about this new chapter, outlining his ambition as he joins the reigning Portuguese champions: "I'm very excited. I came straight from the airport to the stadium for my medical, surrounded by all the trophies, getting a close look at this club's history. To now be a part of that... I can't wait to get started in training."

Smalling revealed that the approach from both the club and the Italian manager played a decisive role in his move: "I felt genuinely wanted, not just by the manager, but by the club, who did everything they could to bring me here. It was great to hear from the manager, how he sees me fitting into the team, and what I can bring to the table. He did his homework, watched my matches, and it just made sense. After just a ten-minute conversation, I knew it was meant to be, and the deal was done."

Facing a demanding schedule that includes defending the league title alongside domestic cup runs and European competition, the new signing aims to bring "experience and leadership" to the backline. "I know I'm joining a successful side—a team that won the league last season and has started this campaign in great form. It's going to be a long season with the cups and Europe, and I'm hungry for more; I'm coming in with a winning mentality. I spoke with the manager, and that's exactly what he wants in every game, so my role is to help the team keep progressing because they're already in great shape," he emphasised.

His connection to Porto is not entirely new. Smalling worked under Portuguese coach Pedro Emanuel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a spell during which he closely followed the Dragons' progress. "I know quite a bit, especially from recent years, because he and his coaching staff watched a lot of FC Porto games. I know we'll have plenty to talk about, just as we did in Riyadh. There's a sense of familiarity, and being here now feels great," he admitted.

Explaining his squad number choice, the seasoned defender said picking the number 6 came naturally: "I've worn number 6 before. 5 and 6 are usually my go-to numbers, and since 6 was still available, it felt like a sign that it was meant for me."

Eager to make his debut in front of the home crowd at the Estádio do Dragão, Smalling pledged total commitment: "I've only just arrived, but I know the history of this club and that it's all about winning. I'm hungry, ready to compete, and that will show in every training session and every match. I'll give everything every single day."