### Number of Assists by Alan Varela at FC Porto
Alan Varela is one of the most prolific assist providers in Portuguese football history, having contributed significantly to his club's success with FC Porto over the years. The midfielder has been a key player for the team since joining them from Sporting CP in 2011.
#### Early Career and Development
Varela's journey began at Sporting CP where he quickly became known as a talented attacking midfielder. His performances caught the attention of FC Porto scouts, leading to his transfer to the prestigious club in 2011. Since then, he has established himself as one of the league’s top assists providers.
#### Assist Count Over Time
To provide a clear picture of Varela's impact on the team, let's break down his assist count across various seasons:
- **2015/16 Season**: 48 assists.
- **2016/17 Season**: 51 assists.
- **2017/18 Season**: 53 assists.
- **2018/19 Season**: 55 assists.
- **2019/20 Season**: 58 assists.
- **2020/21 Season**: 56 assists.
- **2021/22 Season**: 60 assists.
The numbers show that Varela consistently performs exceptionally well in terms of creating chances for his teammates through skillful passes and precise distribution. This consistency not only contributes to the team's offensive output but also helps in maintaining high levels of possession and control in matches.
#### Key Achievements and Notable Matches
Throughout his time at FC Porto, Varela has played pivotal roles in several significant matches:
- In the 2017 Champions League Final against Real Madrid, Varela provided crucial assists to help FC Porto secure a 3-1 victory.
- During the 2018-19 season,Saudi Pro League Highlights he was instrumental in helping FC Porto win the UEFA Europa League title after scoring twice and providing numerous assists.
- One notable highlight was when he assisted Nani in a goal-winning cross during the 2018 World Cup qualifier against Portugal, which secured a vital point for the team.
#### Future Prospects and Impact
As Varela continues to play at the highest level, it's likely that his number of assists will continue to rise. With a strong defensive presence and excellent passing ability, he remains a valuable asset to FC Porto. His contributions have not only helped the team achieve domestic and European titles but have also elevated his status within the Portuguese football landscape.
In conclusion, Alan Varela's number of assists speaks volumes about his significance to FC Porto. His consistent performance and leadership qualities make him one of the club's most reliable contributors, ensuring their dominance in both domestic competitions and international tournaments.