“Very cold” – Farioli bats away Chelsea links amid championship celebrations

Chelsea’s search for a new manager continues, but Francesco Farioli has now gone beyond silence and effectively dismissed the idea of taking over at Stamford Bridge.

The Italian has just led FC Porto to the Portuguese title. That success only strengthens his position, and it also makes his stance clearer. Despite strong admiration from Chelsea, there is still no sign of interest from his side.

Farioli’s rise this season has been rapid. Porto not only secured the league title but also reached the Taça de Portugal semi-finals and made the Europa League quarter-finals. Those results put him firmly on the radar across Europe.

Chelsea have reportedly included him on a shortlist alongside Xabi Alonso and Andoni Iraola. However, developments in Portugal suggest that interest is going nowhere for now.

Title win reinforces stance

Francesco Farioli used the title celebrations to underline where his focus lies.

After guiding Porto to the championship, he addressed fans directly during the celebrations. He praised the squad and emphasised unity, calling it a collective achievement. That tone carried into his post-title stance.

Portuguese outlet Record stated that “the interest from Chelsea was kicked into touch without ceremony”making it clear how little traction the Premier League move has from Farioli’s perspective.

Also, when approached by a fan and asked not to join Chelsea, Farioli jokingly replied: “Too cold”.

Truth be told, the Portuguese weather feels better. His wife and two children are comfortable in Porto, and that stability continues to influence his decision-making.

Contract, family and full control

Francesco Farioli’s remains in Porto for the foreseeable future then.

He signed a contract until 2028 and recently saw his release clause rise to €20m (£17.4m). That fee drops to €15m (£13m) during transfer windows. Even so, any move depends entirely on his willingness to leave, and that willingness is not there.

Champions League football is another key factor. Porto will return to the competition next season, giving Farioli a new stage. Internally, there is also strong alignment with the club’s leadership over building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.

So Chelsea’s admiration existsbut the door has been firmly shut from the inside.