Porto, Portugal — On Monday, Porto announced the hiring of Martín Anselmi as their new head coach, tasked with the immediate goal of advancing the two-time European champions into the knockout stages of the Europa League.

Anselmi will also focus on preparing the team for the upcoming Club World Cup, which is set to take place in the United States. In this prestigious tournament, Porto will face off against Inter Miami, a team that boasts famous player Lionel Messi.

Currently, Porto is struggling in the Europa League, sitting in 25th position out of 36 teams as they gear up for an important match against Maccabi Tel Aviv on Thursday. To improve their standing, Porto will need at least a draw, which would allow them to break into the top 24 and secure a spot in the playoff round of the tournament.

The 39-year-old Argentine manager has committed to a contract that extends until June 2027. During his introduction at a press conference held by Porto president André Villas-Boas, Anselmi voiced his dissatisfaction with officials from his former club, Cruz Azul in Mexico, criticizing them for not adhering to an agreement related to his release.

In the domestic league, Porto is currently positioned third in the Portuguese standings but has faced difficulties in the Europa League, ultimately resulting in the dismissal of their previous coach, Vítor Bruno, last week.

Porto’s qualification for the expanded Club World Cup, featuring 32 teams, is attributed to their consistent performances in the Champions League over the last four years. In addition to Inter Miami, Porto will also compete against Palmeiras and Al Ahly in their group.