Sanusi Named in FC Porto’s Squad for FIFA Club World Cup

Lisbon, Portugal — Nigerian defender Zaidu Sanusi has been named in FC Porto’s 28-man squad for the inaugural edition of the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off this month in the United States.

The Portuguese giants arrived at Newark Liberty International Airport on Tuesday night to begin preparations for the global tournament, with Sanusi making the traveling list despite a challenging season marred by injury.

The 27-year-old left-back suffered a cruciate ligament injury in March 2024 shortly after representing Nigeria in international fixtures, which kept him sidelined for approximately eight months. He made a return to competitive football later in the year.

Although his recent return to full fitness has seen limited game time, his inclusion in Porto’s squad signals the club’s continued faith in his experience and quality at the top level. However, Sanusi’s future at the Estádio do Dragão remains uncertain amid speculation about a potential transfer, especially with two years left on his current contract.

FC Porto are grouped alongside Inter Miami—led by Lionel Messi, Brazil’s Palmeiras, and Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly in what promises to be a fiercely contested tournament stage.

By Enoch  Odesola | June 12, 2025