Portimonense face a serious re-build this summer after it emerged that, in addition to top scorer Welinton Jénior, fellow first team members Maurício, Luquinha, Yony González, Henrique Jocú and Bruno Reis are all unlikely to continue in the Algarve.
Following the club’s worst return in terms of goals (25) scored during a total of 20 seasons in the top division, the emphasis must be on forwards with the on-loan return of Shoya Nakajima one possibility. The now 28-year-old Japanese attacking midfielder enjoyed his best spell between 2017-19 in Portimão before departing for Qatar’s Al-Duhail for a reported €35 million. He then spent two seasons, mostly on the bench, in Porto and is currently said to be unhappy in Turkey where he has seen little action with Antalyaspor.
Meanwhile, manager Paulo Sérgio has withdrawn his appeal against a 30-day suspension and will now serve the touchline ban at the beginning of next season.
Further East, newly promoted Farense have reached agreement with successful coach José Mota to continue in his role with the stated objective of maintaining their top tier status.
Lastly, Olhanense, now marooned in the district leagues after having competed at Portugal’s highest level as recently as the 2013/14 season, have elected Manuel Cajuda unopposed as their new President. The Olhão-born 71-year-old who previously spent time both as a player and manager at the club is expected to bring some stability to the troubled Algarveans.
By SKIP BANDELE
