Tonny Vilhena’s relationship with the dragons eventually came to a halt

Signed for three million euros, Toni Vilhena will be one of the leaders of Panathinaikos’ intentions against Braga, at Pedrera, in the play-off to reach the Champions League group stage. The midfielder’s class was already evident against Marseille, and it is important to remember that in 2016 this season sparked a warm friendship from FC Porto. Vilhena was a much appreciated target and Antero Henrique worked on it, in a process aimed at reaching Dragão at no cost. The player even visited the stadium, even admired the conditions, but the death of his mother would be, in that year, a brake on his departure from the country, and he would end up renewing with Feyenoord.

“It’s true that things were talked about, but that didn’t happen. This is football. My dreams are to be played in the clubs I represent, as much as it would be nice to play in Portugal. I’m 28 and I’m still a long way from finishing, because I know I can improve Every day”, the player, who has come to be regarded as one of the great midfielders in Europe, scores his best season in 2017/18, with a total of 13 goals. Feyenoord. Even Jose Mourinho pursued him to sign for Manchester United.

In addition to having one foot in the Dragao, Toni Vilhena knows Portugal well. “It’s true that I have a lot of family in Portugal, my dad used to live in Lisbon. I go to the country every year, because I love its beaches and its restaurants. It’s always great to be in Portugal, I love these visits, the weather is great and there’s always so much to do” says the Greek creator, who was challenged to remember the main character he had in European matches against FC Porto, who represent Krasnodar.

“These matches went very well, especially the second, when we went to Porto to change the confrontation. It was a great victory and a great experience,” he said, before turning the matter again to the duel with the Arsenalistas. “Now it would be good to come back,” he warns. “It will be another final against a great opponent and we have to do our best.”