Former Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has signed for FC Porto on a free transfer. The 36-year-old centre-back joins the Portuguese league leaders after his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Fayha expired at the end of last season.
Porto confirmed the deal this week, stating Smalling had joined without a transfer fee. His contract runs until the end of the current campaign, with the club holding an option to extend it for another year based on the achievement of certain sporting objectives. Manager Francesco Farioli has brought in the experienced defender to strengthen his squad as they compete at the top of the table and in Europe. The club's current standings show them leading the Primeira Liga with a perfect record.
A look back at Smalling’s career
Smalling spent nine seasons at Old Trafford after joining from Fulham in 2010. He made 323 appearances for Manchester United, scoring 18 goals, and won two Premier League titles and three Community Shields. The defender also earned 31 caps for England, playing at the 2014 World Cup and Euro 2016. After leaving United, he enjoyed a successful five-year spell with Roma, winning the inaugural Europa Conference League in 2022, before his two-year stint in Saudi Arabia with Al-Fayha.
What Smalling brings to Porto
Porto sit top of the Primeira Liga with a perfect record of seven wins from seven games, giving them a five-point lead over rivals Benfica. Smalling is expected to provide immediate defensive depth and leadership. He has been handed the number six shirt and will aim to help the club maintain its strong start. The team has conceded only 4 goals in those 7 matches, a defensive solidity Smalling will be tasked with preserving. His arrival bolsters a squad that is also competing in the UEFA Champions League group stage.
Context around Smalling’s departure
Smalling’s move continues a trend of Manchester United moving on experienced players in recent transfer windows as manager Michael Carrick reshapes his squad. The club currently sits 12th in the Premier League with five points from their opening five matches, having scored 6 goals and conceded 10. Their next challenge is a home fixtures against Aston Villa. Smalling will now focus on making his debut for Porto as they look to continue their flawless league form, with their next match away to Casa Pia.
The report in full is at Goal.com
