The air in Porto is thick with anticipation as FC Porto officially kicks off its 2025/26 season. More than just a routine squad presentation, this event, held just before a compelling friendly clash against Atlético de Madrid, offered a vital first look at the team`s numerical identity for the upcoming campaign. For fans, it`s not merely about who`s wearing what, but what these assignments might signify for the Dragons` strategic aspirations and individual player roles.
Among the most eagerly awaited announcements was the jersey number for recent reinforcement, Luuk de Jong. The experienced striker will proudly don the number 26. This selection immediately prompts discussion: a classic number often associated with forwards, it suggests he`s poised for a significant attacking contribution. Given the high expectations placed upon new signings, his integration into the team`s attacking machinery will be one of the key narratives to follow.
Equally intriguing is the assignment for young talent Rodrigo Mora, who inherits the somewhat unconventional number 86. While traditionalists might raise an eyebrow at a number typically associated with academy graduates or less established players, it often signifies a burgeoning talent being integrated into the senior squad, with potential for a breakthrough season. The number 10, a jersey steeped in footballing folklore, has been handed to Gabri Veiga, cementing his position as a central creative force and playmaker for the team. This is a clear vote of confidence in his ability to orchestrate attacks and dictate play from midfield.
The Complete 2025/26 FC Porto Roster by Number:
- 3: Zé Pedro
- 5: Jan Bednarek
- 6: Eustáquio
- 7: William Gomes
- 8: Victor Froholdt
- 9: Samu
- 10: Gabri Veiga
- 11: Pepê
- 12: Zaidu
- 14: Cláudio Ramos
- 15: Vasco Sousa
- 16: Marko Grujić
- 17: Borja Sainz
- 18: Nehuén Pérez
- 19: Danny Namaso
- 20: Alberto Costa
- 21: Dominik Prpić
- 22: Alan Varela
- 24: João Costa
- 25: Tomás Pérez
- 26: Luuk de Jong
- 27: Deniz Gül
- 45: João Moreira
- 51: Diogo Fernandes
- 52: Martim Fernandes
- 74: Francisco Moura
- 77: Iván Jaime
- 86: Rodrigo Mora
- 99: Diogo Costa
Beyond the headline figures, the comprehensive list reveals a blend of established veterans and promising youngsters. The continuity in numbers for core players like Diogo Costa (99), Pepê (11), and Alan Varela (22) indicates a stable foundation upon which manager Sérgio Conceição will build. The numerical choices are often a subtle hint at the coaching staff`s vision, indicating who they see as pivotal figures and who might be on the cusp of a breakout season.
This annual reveal is more than just a list of digits; it’s a fashion show of football kits, a symbolic gesture that marks the official start of another demanding season. With the friendly against Atlético de Madrid serving as an immediate litmus test, these newly assigned numbers will quickly become synonymous with performances on the pitch. Fans will now begin associating these digits with tackles, goals, saves, and moments of brilliance, shaping their narratives for the season ahead.
FC Porto`s meticulous approach to squad numbering underscores the club`s readiness for the challenges of the 2025/26 campaign. With a defined roster and clear numerical identities, the Dragons are primed to embark on another quest for silverware, both domestically and on the European stage. The stage is set, the numbers are known – let the football begin.
