Persebaya Surabaya Signs Top Scorer Alex Martins and New Foreign Players for Upcoming Season

Persebaya Surabaya has signed four new foreign players to bolster its squad for the upcoming season, including former Liga 1 top scorer Alex Martins. The club’s recruitment drive focuses on strengthening the attacking line and defensive stability as they prepare for the pramusim (pre-season) and the Super League campaign, according to official club announcements and regional reports from Antara News and CNN Indonesia.

Alex Martins Joins Persebaya Attack

The most prominent addition to the roster is Alex Martins. The striker arrives at Persebaya with a proven track record in the Indonesian top flight, having previously established himself as one of the league’s most clinical finishers. Persebaya.id confirmed the signing, noting that Martins’ experience as a former top scorer provides the team with the necessary firepower to compete for a title.

Martins’ arrival is part of a broader tactical shift to ensure the team has a reliable target man who can convert chances in a league known for its physical demands and high-intensity play. By securing a player already acclimated to the local environment, Persebaya reduces the adaptation period often required for new foreign imports.

Defensive Reinforcements from Cape Verde

While the attack has garnered the most headlines, Persebaya has also prioritized the backline. CNN Indonesia reported that the club has officially recruited a new defender from Cape Verde. The addition of a Cape Verdean international is intended to bring more physicality and aerial dominance to the defense.

This move follows a trend of Indonesian clubs looking toward West African and Lusophone markets for defenders who possess a blend of speed and strength. The new center-back will be tasked with organizing a defense that aims to be more resilient during the early stages of the season.

Squad Depth and Pre-season Preparation

Persebaya has introduced a total of 31 players to undergo pre-season training. According to Antara News Jatim, this expanded group allows the coaching staff to evaluate depth and fitness levels before finalizing the match-day squad for the Super League. The larger pool of players is designed to prevent burnout and manage injuries during the rigorous training phase.

The club is emphasizing a “foundation for champions” approach. Kompas.com reports that the management is focusing on more mature and open preparations this year, suggesting a shift in how the club handles its early-season build-up compared to previous campaigns. This involves more transparent communication regarding player roles and a structured approach to tactical integration.

Tactical Implications of the New Signings

The recruitment of four foreign players—spanning the attack and defense—indicates a balanced approach to squad building. By pairing a proven goal-scorer like Martins with a robust defender from Cape Verde, Persebaya is addressing the two most critical ends of the pitch.

For global readers, it is important to note that Liga 1 regulations regarding foreign player quotas often dictate these recruitment windows. Persebaya’s decision to fill these slots early suggests a desire to establish chemistry before the league’s official start date. The integration of these players into the 31-man pre-season squad will be the primary focus for the technical team in the coming weeks.

Summary of New Arrivals

Persebaya will continue its pre-season schedule as the 31-man squad works toward full match fitness. The club is expected to provide further updates on the remaining foreign signings and the full squad list as the Super League calendar approaches. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Alex Martins integrates with the local talent to lead the line in Surabaya.

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