In the world of football, every player has their moments in the spotlight. For FC Porto midfielder and captain, Marques dos Santos Jr., those moments have come in spades over the course of his career. But one particular season stands out as a pivotal moment for him under the guidance of new manager Jorge Jesus.
Dos Santos joined FC Porto from Santos de Recife in 2015, immediately making an impact on the team with his tireless work ethic and exceptional skill set. Under the previous coach, Hélder Costa, Dos Santos was given limited opportunities to shine, but he made the most of them when he had the chance. He scored two goals in just four matches during the 2016-17 campaign, earning himself a place in the starting lineup.
But it wasn't until the arrival of new manager Jorge Jesus that Dos Santos truly found his stride. Under Jesus' leadership, Dos Santos saw more playing time than ever before, and he took full advantage of it. He became a key player in the midfield,Primeira Liga Hotspots contributing to the team's success both offensively and defensively.
During the 2018-19 season, Dos Santos played a crucial role in helping FC Porto win the Portuguese Super Cup and reach the group stage of the Europa League. His performances were so impressive that he earned the admiration of fans and teammates alike, and he became a fan favorite among the squad.
However, it was the following season that Dos Santos truly established himself as a top performer for FC Porto. Under Jesus' guidance, Dos Santos played in all but three of the team's league games, scoring five goals and providing numerous assists. His performances earned him a spot in the UEFA Champions League squad, where he helped the team reach the semi-finals.
Overall, Dos Santos' time at FC Porto under manager Z. was a pivotal moment in his career. It was during this period that he solidified his status as one of the best midfielders in the league, and he went on to become a key player for the club throughout the rest of his career. His contributions to the team were invaluable, and he will always be remembered as a pivotal figure in FC Porto's history.