Start Early, Madura United Announces New Recruit from Brazil for the Second Round
JAKARTA - Madura United took quick steps in the transfer market for the second round of the 2025/2026 Super League by officially announcing its new recruit.
This movement of the Laskar Sapeh Kerap precedes Persib Bandung, which has been rumored to bring in the naturalized Indonesian national team player, Joey Pelupessy and Maarten Paes.
Even though the rumors were not as good as Persib, Madura United proved to be faster in acting. They have now officially brought in Brazilian striker, Riquelme Sousa.
This was revealed by the President Director of PT PBMB, Annisa Zhafarina, through an upload on Madura United's official Instagram. He even explained the reason behind the recruitment of Sousa.
"After witnessing three matches with different opponents, we believe the coach has understood the team's shortcomings. Based on the evaluation, the coach explained the players' needs for the second round and recommended the addition of two foreign players as a reinforcement for the squad."
"The main needs of the team include a target man type striker as a breaker of the deadlock, as well as a multi-position player who is able to play as an attacking midfielder, right winger, and striker."
"For the needs of multi-position players, there are three candidates being considered. After a joint evaluation, Riquelme Sousa was chosen because he was considered to have advantages and was most suitable for the team's needs," said Annisa Zhafarina, quoted on Monday, December 22, 2025.
Officially becoming part of Madura United for the second round of the 2025/2026 Super League, Sousa is determined to work hard for his team's front line.
"Every opportunity is a responsibility. I will work hard and make sure Madura United has a threat in the front line," he said.
The 20-year-old striker previously strengthened the Kyrgyz club, Abdysh-Ata Kant. He also played for the Serbian club, Vrsac. Before that, Sousa was recorded as having spent more of his career in Brazil.