Former Roma defender Chris Smalling has officially joined FC Porto as a free agent following the completion of his medical examination.
Fabrizio Romano initially reported that the Portuguese club had reached a full agreement with the English centre-back, with Porto subsequently announcing his arrival for the 2026-27 season. Fabrizio Romano, Zerozero
The 36-year-old had been without a club since leaving Saudi Arabian side Al-Fayha following two seasons in the Saudi Pro League.
Smalling Returns to European Football
Smalling is reportedly joining Porto on a contract running until June 2027, giving the Portuguese champions another experienced option in central defence.
The move allows the former England international to return to European football two years after leaving Roma for Al-Fayha.
Smalling originally joined the Giallorossi on loan from Manchester United in 2019 before completing a permanent transfer the following year. He became an important member of Roma’s defence and a popular figure among supporters during his five seasons in the Italian capital.
The defender made 155 appearances and scored 10 goals for Roma. He also played a major role in José Mourinho’s side winning the inaugural UEFA Europa Conference League in 2022. AS Roma
Porto Add Experience to Their Defence
Smalling brings extensive experience from the Premier League, Serie A and European competition to Francesco Farioli’s squad.
Before moving to Roma, he spent nine seasons with Manchester United, winning two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League. He also earned 31 senior appearances for England and represented his country at the 2014 World Cup and Euro 2016.
Porto will now hope Smalling’s leadership and defensive experience can strengthen the squad as they compete domestically and in Europe.
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