“I cannot deny”: Unbeaten Porto boss makes confession over Rangers manager talks amid Rohl praise

Porto head coach Francesco Farioli has opened up about how close he came to becoming Rangers manager during the summer, after being strongly linked with the vacant role at Ibrox.

The 36-year-old Italian has enjoyed a stunning start to life at the Estádio do Dragão since taking charge in July. Porto currently sit top of Liga Portugal, having won 18 of their opening 19 league matches, while conceding just four goals all season. Their dominant form has given them a commanding seven-point lead at the summit of the table.

Farioli’s side are also well placed in the Europa League standings ahead of Thursday’s clash with Rangers. A victory could secure a top-eight finish and guarantee automatic qualification for the last 32. The former Nice boss will be aiming to extend his team’s impressive unbeaten domestic run into European competition.

However, events could have taken a very different turn for Farioli. Prior to Russell Martin’s appointment at Ibrox, the Italian was heavily linked with the Rangers job and has now confirmed that discussions did take place.

“I can’t deny that I had some contact with Rangers in the past,” Farioli admitted. “The main talks were a few years ago when Ross Wilson was the sporting director. At that time, I was closer to the opportunity. Rangers are a great club, with huge tradition in the UK and in European competitions.

“I was very thankful to receive those kinds of calls, but life took me towards other interesting and ambitious projects. Right now, I’m extremely grateful for where I am. I’ve renewed my contract and I’m very happy at Porto.”

Farioli, who spent last season in charge of Ajax, also revealed that he has been keeping a close eye on Rangers throughout the campaign. He was quick to praise German coach Danny Rohl, who has overseen an impressive turnaround, winning 14 of his first 17 league matches in charge.

“Yes, I’ve followed the team,” Farioli added. “They didn’t start the season well, but they’ve improved significantly since Danny Rohl arrived. Rangers are very fortunate to have him. We have a lot of respect for Rangers and know we must maintain a very high level of motivation.”