Christian Saydee’s Portsmouth journey may be nearing its end, with manager John Mousinho confirming the striker could move on this summer.
Saydee, a popular figure among the Fratton Park faithful, has been told he won’t be pushed out—but may be better served seeking more regular football elsewhere.
Portsmouth Prepare for Life Without Saydee
Saydee made 29 Championship appearances in the 2024/25 campaign, matching his League One goal tally from the previous year with three strikes, but Mousinho has been open about the striker’s prospects going forward.
The former Bournemouth academy graduate, who joined Pompey in June 2023 following loan spells with Burton Albion and Shrewsbury Town, has largely been used from the bench. Though praised for his impact late in games, Mousinho believes limited game time in a new tactical system may prompt the powerful forward to consider a move.
“Christian’s had a pretty good season, to be honest. He played more games than he did in League One and he scored the same amount of goals… there’s a bit of that cult hero about him for various reasons,” Mousinho said. “We’re not pushing him out of the door at all, but if he has an opportunity I think it would probably be reasonable for us to consider it with Chris.”
Saydee’s final-day goal in a 1-1 draw against Hull City was a fitting send-off, should he depart this summer. It took his Portsmouth tally to seven goals in 73 appearances, a modest return, but his overall contribution has gone beyond numbers. His physicality, strength on the ball, and energy off the bench have made him a unique weapon in Mousinho’s attacking options.
Saydee began his professional career with AFC Bournemouth, making a memorable debut in 2021 with a goal and assist against MK Dons in the EFL Cup. His subsequent loan spells at Burton and Shrewsbury gave him regular EFL experience, and he particularly shone with the Shrews, scoring a brace against former club Burton and earning a Player of the Month award in December 2022.
Writer’s View
Christian Saydee’s time at Fratton Park has been defined by hard work, heart, and flashes of brilliance rather than prolific scoring. His potential departure reflects the harsh realities of Championship football—where tactical fit and adaptability often outweigh sentiment. Saydee has the ability to be a valuable asset elsewhere in League One or the lower end of the Championship.
While his contributions won’t be forgotten by Portsmouth fans, the club’s ambition to solidify second-tier status may require sharper, more system-aligned options up front. This is a case of right player, wrong time—and both club and player could benefit from a respectful parting of ways.
