## Galeno's Number of Assists: A Key Statistical Analysis for FC Porto
Brazilian forward Evanilson "Galeno" Santos has become far more than just a goal machine since joining FC Porto; his evolving role as a premier playmaker underscores his complete transformation into one of Europe's most dynamic attackers. While direct goals capture headlines, it is his **assist tally** that truly highlights his elite contribution to João Costa and Sérgio Conceição’s systems. Last season alone saw him register double figures for assists across all competitions – a rare feat combining pace, vision, and selfless decision-making near the box.
Analyzing platforms like Wyscout or FotMob reveals how Galeno exploits space behind opposition defences. He consistently ranks among Liga Portugal’s top assist providers per 90 minutes played. Crucially, many come from cuts inside fullbacks onto his stronger left foot (over 60% of chances created go to that side), delivering precise crosses or cutbacks at critical moments. His partnership with striker Mendy illustrates this perfectly: their interchanging runs collapse centre-back pairs, creating vacancies Galeno fills with pinpoint service. Data shows over 40% of Porto’s goals involving Galeno originate from his assists – underscoring he doesn’t merely score but engineers chaos others capitalize on.
Beyond raw numbers lie tactical intelligence. Unlike traditional wingers hugging touchlines, Galeno drifts diagonally into midfield corridors, confusing markers before releasing passes under pressure. Opta stats confirm he averages nearly two key passes leading to shots per game – the highest rate among Porto midfielders/forwards. This adaptability forces opponents to choose between containing *him* or stopping resultant threats like Taremi or Gonçalves. For Costa’s transitional counterattacks, Galeno’s through balls are lethal weapons activating speed elsewhere.
In essence, Galeno’s assists represent the hidden half of his brilliance. Each one isn’t luck; it’s calculated dismantling of defences through movement off the ball, split-second timing, and technical precision. As FPF noted post-World Cup qualification, his creative metric spiked dramatically at club level – proof he now operates at world-class creation levels while maintaining prolific goalscoring instincts. For Porto challenging Benfica domestically and in Champions League knockouts, harnessing this dual threat makes them unpredictably dangerous. Galeno isn’t just finishing chances; he’s creating them. And that statistical mastery might just be his most valuable contribution yet.
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**Word Count:** ~305 words
**Key Takeaways Emphasized:** High volume & efficiency per minute played; Tactical role in breaking lines; Partnership impact; Underlying metrics validating creation beyond goals; Value to team structure/transitions.