A month ago
FC Porto has released an official statement expressing their deep frustration and disappointment over the handling of the potential transfer of their player, Galeno. The club aimed their discontent particularly at the Saudi Pro League (SPL) chairman, underlining their shock over what they perceived as an unexpected and unprofessional turn of events surrounding the deal.
The statement from FC Porto begins by pointing out their frustration with how the Galeno transfer was managed. They believe that there was already a clear agreement in place for Galeno to move to Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad. The terms of the agreement appeared to satisfy all the parties involved, including both Al Ittihad and Galeno himself. However, FC Porto was caught off guard by unexpected developments that altered the course of the negotiations.
According to FC Porto, the agreement had been reached after meticulous discussions and negotiations that involved a number of different factors, from financial details to personal terms between Galeno and the interested club. They emphasized that these negotiations had covered all the necessary aspects to ensure that the transfer would proceed smoothly. Porto had approached the deal with transparency and diligence, taking all the steps required to finalize the transfer.
Despite this apparent mutual agreement, FC Porto was left surprised by what they describe as erratic behavior from the side of the SPL representatives. The Portuguese club suggested that this behavior was not in line with the professional standards expected in such high-profile transactions. The tone of their statement suggested a sense of betrayal, as they believed they had already established a firm understanding with all parties involved. FC Porto feels particularly aggrieved because the developments seemed to have happened at the eleventh hour, potentially disrupting both the club’s planning and the player’s future.
They further elaborated that they were confident in the integrity of the deal and had even made arrangements on the assumption that the agreement would be honored. This sudden shift has caused disappointment not only within the club's management but also among their supporters, who were preparing to bid farewell to Galeno under the belief that he would be leaving for a new challenge in the Middle East.
Nevertheless, FC Porto also expressed a positive outlook amidst this unexpected controversy. They conveyed a sense of relief and happiness at the fact that Galeno would now be staying with the club. The statement emphasized that Galeno remains a highly valued member of their squad, and his continued presence is considered a significant boost for the team’s ambitions this season. They reaffirmed their commitment to the player and highlighted his importance in their ongoing and future plans.
The club also took this opportunity to underline their satisfaction with the professionalism and loyalty that Galeno has demonstrated throughout the transfer saga. His willingness to remain committed to FC Porto, despite the potential allure of a lucrative contract elsewhere, has won him further admiration from the club’s hierarchy and its supporters.
FC Porto's statement ended with a call for professional conduct and respect in all future dealings. The club made it clear that while they are happy to retain Galeno, they hope that this incident will prompt reflection and improvement in how transfer negotiations are handled in the future, particularly when involving international parties. They emphasized the need for clarity, honesty, and respect among all football clubs and governing bodies to maintain the integrity and professionalism that the sport demands.
In conclusion, FC Porto expressed their wish to move forward from this episode, reaffirming their focus on the season ahead with Galeno as a crucial player in their squad. However, the club’s disappointment with the SPL’s handling of the situation is evident, and they seem determined to ensure that such situations are avoided in the future for the good of the sport.