Conceição: “Alan Varela is at a higher level than Uribe at the start.”

Matheus Uribe was one of FC Porto's standout players for four years, until his departure to Al Sadd last summer, but the Colombian midfielder is not missing much at the Estádio do Dragão due to Alan Varela.

The Argentine midfielder was signed from Boca Juniors at the start of the season and it did not take long for him to establish himself as one of the undisputed players in Sergio Conceiçao's side.

In this way, the Dragon coach realizes that Varela is at a higher level than Uribe was in his first months at the blue and white club.

“Alan Varela at the moment is at a higher level than Uribe was at that moment. He's not the last Uribe, who left last year, but the first Uribe. I think Varela is at a higher level now. A hug now to Uribe, one of the best midfielders I have worked with,” he said, in anticipation of meeting Gil Vicente.

Furthermore, Conceição also updated the health status of Zaido, who was seriously injured against Estrella da Amadora.

“In principle, it will be operational on Monday. You feel anxious, this is normal. It's a serious injury, it won't be less than seven or eight months. The group is sad, but very supportive. He is with him and he will feel comfort from us.