Zaidu Sanusi has been named in FC Porto’s pre-season squad for their first friendly match in preparation for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, marking a notable return for the Nigerian full-back after an extended absence from first-team action.
The 27-year-old has not featured in any of Porto’s recent matchday squads, last appearing on the team sheet on 2 May. On that occasion, he remained an unused substitute.
Following that match, he was left out of the squad for the final two fixtures of the season against Boavista and Nacional. His exclusion was not linked to injury, but rather a tactical decision, as competition for his position intensified under head coach Martín Anselmi.
Despite being sidelined in the latter stages of the campaign, Sanusi’s inclusion in Porto’s pre-season camp signals a possible opportunity for the defender to reset his trajectory with the club.
His recall comes at a crucial time, as Porto prepare for their upcoming involvement in the Club World Cup, a high-profile tournament that could serve as a platform for players to showcase their abilities on the global stage.
Sanusi’s absence in recent months had sparked speculation about his future at the Estádio do Dragão. With a new contender introduced in his position, the Nigerian international had seen his role diminish significantly.
Internal discussions regarding a potential transfer reportedly took place as early as January 2025, though no deal was finalised. Porto were reluctant to allow any squad changes during the crucial stages of the season.
While his return to the squad is a positive development, it does not necessarily indicate a full reinstatement into the starting eleven. Sources close to the club suggest that a move away from Porto could still be on the cards once the Club World Cup concludes.
However, being named in the squad provides Sanusi with a renewed chance to stake his claim and potentially alter the course of his future.
The 2025 Club World Cup presents a pivotal moment not only for FC Porto but also for individual players like Sanusi, who are looking to re-establish their presence within the team.
Though it remains uncertain how much playing time he will receive during the competition, his selection may be a sign that the coaching staff have not entirely closed the door on his contributions.
With pre-season preparations now underway, all eyes will be on how Martín Anselmi deploys his squad and whether Sanusi can seize the opportunity to prove his value once again.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the Nigerian international will remain with the club beyond the tournament or seek new opportunities elsewhere.
For now, Sanusi’s inclusion offers a glimmer of hope and a potential turning point after months of uncertainty — a step forward for a player eager to return to the pitch and reclaim his place at one of Portugal’s most storied clubs.
