FC Porto manager says he’s used Burnley videos for inspiration — Francesco Farioli admits he’s long admired Sean Dyche’s tactical discipline and has used Burnley matches for analysis ahead of Porto’s clash with Nottingham Forest.
The Portuguese giants travel to the City Ground tonight looking for their first Europa League win of the season, while Forest enter a new era under Dyche, appointed this week following Ange Postecoglou’s departure.
Farioli: “I used videos of Burnley”
Farioli explained that Porto had to overhaul their match preparation once Forest’s managerial change was confirmed.
“Regarding the changes at Nottingham, we received the news and had to rush to prepare for three different scenarios. With two or three coaching candidates and their respective variables,” Farioli told O Jogo. “Until yesterday Sean Dyche was confirmed, and we had to focus completely on the new manager. He’s someone with a very strong connection to the club.”
The Porto coach added that Dyche’s tactical identity and emotional link to Forest made this fixture particularly unpredictable.
“He will bring a strong and clear identity. At the other clubs I’ve coached, I even used videos of Burnley, because of the team’s spirit of sacrifice and the way they protect the goal. There are things that serve as analysis, and we’ll be ready for different scenarios.”
Emotional factors at play
Farioli also referenced the emotional intensity surrounding Dyche’s appointment, noting his local ties and the enthusiasm within the squad.
“We threw out all the analysis we did up until last Saturday. We had a couple of days to gather information and pay attention to the new manager, Sean Dyche, who has a strong connection with the club. The emotional factor will have an impact on the match.”
Dyche, who still lives in Nottingham, returns to management with a familiar backroom team that includes several former Forest figures. His first task is to steady a side struggling both domestically and in Europe.
Tactical respect from Farioli
Farioli’s admiration for Dyche’s methods is clear. During his previous coaching roles, the Italian often used Burnley’s defensive structure under Dyche as a reference point. He praised their organisation, pressing triggers, and collective resilience — qualities he expects to see at Forest despite the short turnaround.
Our View
In our view, Farioli’s comments show the high regard in which Dyche’s tactical clarity is held across Europe. While Dyche’s style has often divided opinion in England, continental coaches appreciate the discipline and identity his teams display.
For Porto, preparing for emotional unpredictability could be as vital as dealing with tactical changes. Dyche’s return home could lift the City Ground atmosphere, and if Forest channel that energy effectively, they could make life difficult for the visitors.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Farioli’s meticulous preparation reflects how seriously Porto are taking the threat of a Dyche-led side. “I think Dyche’s appointment changes the entire mood around Forest,” he says. “Porto know exactly how structured and combative his teams can be. It’s not just about tactics — it’s about mindset.”
In my view, the respect Farioli shows underlines Dyche’s enduring influence. His Burnley model remains a touchstone for managers who value organisation and spirit — even at Champions League-level clubs like Porto.
Key Insights
- Porto coach Francesco Farioli admits using Burnley videos for tactical study.
- Farioli expects Sean Dyche to bring “a strong and clear identity” to Nottingham Forest.
- Porto reworked their game plan after Dyche’s appointment.
- Dyche’s emotional ties to Nottingham could inspire Forest’s performance.
- The Europa League clash offers Dyche an early chance to lift his new club’s morale.
What’s Next
Nottingham Forest host FC Porto tonight at the City Ground in the Europa League, with kick-off at 8.00pm BST. Dyche’s men are searching for their first group-stage win, while Farioli’s Porto look to assert themselves after a mixed start to the campaign.
👉 Can Sean Dyche’s trademark discipline inspire a winning debut for Nottingham Forest against Porto?
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