Sérgio Conceição reveals why he never gave up on Super Eagles star Zaidu Sanusi

Former FC Porto coach Sérgio Conceição has explained why he continued to back Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi despite criticism during the Nigerian’s time at the Portuguese club.

Conceição, who coached Porto between 2017 and 2024, highlighted Sanusi’s exceptional pace and ability to operate effectively along the left flank while reflecting on the defender’s contribution to the team.

The former Portugal international was speaking on a DAZN programme when he was asked about Sanusi in connection with Porto’s 2-0 UEFA Champions League victory over Bayer Leverkusen in October 2022.

Conceição rejected suggestions that Sanusi was a player who received opportunities without doing enough to justify them.

“Zaidu a spoiled brat? Honestly, I don’t think so. He’s proven otherwise. The proof of my insistence is that he’s still at FC Porto today and is useful to FC Porto,” Conceição said, according to OneFootball.

The former Porto boss then pointed to the physical qualities that made Sanusi an important option on the left side of his defence.

“Physically, he’s above average, extremely fast. He runs down the left flank incredibly well,” Conceição added.

Sanusi’s pace allowed him to contribute at both ends of the pitch, providing Porto with an option capable of covering significant ground when transitioning between defence and attack.

The Nigerian joined Porto in 2020 from fellow Portuguese club Santa Clara after previously developing his career with Gil Vicente and Mirandela.

During his time at Porto, Sanusi has won major domestic honours, including Portuguese league titles and domestic cups. He also scored the decisive goal in Porto’s 1-0 away victory over Benfica in May 2022, a result that confirmed the club as Portuguese champions.

Porto subsequently extended his contract, underlining the importance the club placed on the Nigerian left-back.

Porto considering new Sanusi deal

Sanusi’s relationship with Porto could continue beyond his current contract, with reports indicating that the club is considering another extension for the defender.

His current deal is due to expire at the end of the season, meaning Porto would risk losing him for nothing if an agreement is not reached before he enters the final months of his contract.

The 29-year-old has remained part of Porto’s squad despite competition for the left-back position and has featured five times this season before suffering a right-adductor injury during the club’s 3-0 victory over Académico de Viseu.

Conceição’s latest comments therefore offer a reminder of the confidence he placed in the Super Eagles defender during his time in charge of the Portuguese giants.

For Sanusi, the praise from the coach who played a key role in establishing him at Porto further underlines the qualities that have kept him at one of Portugal’s biggest clubs for more than six years.