Bernardo Tavares Explains Persebaya’s Signing of Reza Arya and Syahrul Lasinari

Persebaya Surabaya head coach Bernardo Tavares confirmed the club’s decision to sign forward Reza Arya and midfielder Syahrul Lasinari, citing the players’ experience and alignment with the team’s tactical goals, according to a statement from the club’s official website. The announcements come as part of a broader effort to strengthen Persebaya’s squad ahead of the 2024 Liga 1 Indonesia season.

The signings follow reports that Persebaya had been evaluating options to bolster its attacking and midfield options. Tavares, who previously led PSM Makassar to a Liga 1 title in 2022, emphasized the importance of bringing in players with “proven track records in high-pressure environments.”

Why Did Persebaya Sign Reza Arya and Syahrul Lasinari?

Reza Arya, a 28-year-old forward, joined Persebaya after a stint with PSM Makassar, where he scored 12 goals in 34 appearances during the 2023 season. Syahrul Lasinari, a 26-year-old midfielder, also moved from PSM Makassar, contributing 4 goals and 7 assists in 32 matches. Both players were part of PSM’s championship-winning squad, according to Liga 1 official records.

Tavares stated in a press conference that the duo’s experience in competitive matches was a key factor. “Reza and Syahrul have played in critical moments, and their ability to perform under pressure is exactly what we need,” he said. The coach also highlighted their familiarity with the Indonesian football landscape, noting that both players “understand the challenges of Liga 1 and the expectations of fans.”

Reza Arya’s move marks a return to Surabaya, where he previously played for Persebaya’s youth academy. Syahrul Lasinari, meanwhile, has been linked to several Liga 1 clubs in recent months, with reports suggesting Persebaya secured his services after a bidding war with PSIS Semarang, though no official figures were disclosed.

What Impact Will These Signings Have on Persebaya’s Squad?

The additions of Arya and Lasinari are expected to address gaps in Persebaya’s attacking and midfield options. The club finished 10th in the 2023 Liga 1 table, with a goal-scoring rate of 1.2 per game, according to data from Liga Indonesia. Analysts suggest the signings could improve the team’s ability to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities.

Persebaya’s current squad includes veteran striker Beto Gonçalves and midfielder Andriyansyah, who both played pivotal roles in the 2023 season. The inclusion of Arya and Lasinari could provide tactical flexibility, with Tavares hinting at a potential 4-3-3 formation to maximize their attacking potential.

“We’re not just looking for individual talent but players who can integrate into our system,” Tavares said. “Reza and Syahrul bring a different dimension to the team, and we believe they’ll complement our existing structure.”

How Do These Signings Fit Into Persebaya’s Transfer Strategy?

Persebaya’s recruitment of Arya and Lasinari follows a pattern of targeting players from PSM Makassar, a club with which Tavares has a strong connection. The coach led PSM to its first-ever Liga 1 title in 2022, and several of his former players have since joined Persebaya, including Ramadhan Sananta, who signed in January 2024.

Sananta, a 24-year-old forward, was part of PSM’s championship-winning squad and has already begun training with Persebaya. His return to Tavares’ side has been described as a “reunion” by local media, though the club has not explicitly confirmed the relationship.

Persebaya’s transfer activity this season has also included the acquisition of defender Mochamad Supriadi from Persib Bandung and midfielder Dendy Sulistyawan from Bhayangkara Presisi FC. The club’s sporting director, Dito Sujarwo, stated in a recent interview that the goal is to “build a balanced squad capable of competing for the title.”

What Challenges Might These Players Face?

Despite the optimism, both Arya and Lasinari will need to adapt quickly to Persebaya’s playing style. Tavares’ system emphasizes high pressing and quick transitions, which could be a shift from the more possession-based approach PSM employed under his guidance.

Reza Arya, who has previously struggled with consistency, will need to replicate his 2023 form