SURABAYA - Persebaya Surabaya tactician, Bernardo Tavares, urged fans and the national football public not to rush in assessing the quality of their new foreign players. According to the UEFA Pro-licensed coach, the majority of the new foreign legion joined less than a week ago, so the adaptation process is still very much needed.
Looking ahead to the 2026/2027 season, the team nicknamed "Green Force" was active in the transfer market, signing seven foreign players at once. These new pillars include winger Miguel Pereira, defender Walber Mota, Congo national team striker Yann Kevin Mabella, midfielder Gledson Paixao, robust defender Yuran Fernandes, as well as Diogo Ramalho and Alex Martins.
Tavares explained that the players' adjustment process is not limited to tactics on the pitch. Beyond that, they must also get used to the environment, culture, and atmosphere of life in Indonesia so they can play freely and integrate with the team.
Despite seeing great potential and promising early quality from his new signings, the coach emphasized that physical fitness remains the main homework. Optimal physical readiness is considered crucial before they are ready to be fielded in high-intensity matches.
Furthermore, Tavares revealed that some players experienced fitness issues and minor injuries during the first training session. Nevertheless, he appreciated the quick work of the club's medical team in carrying out recoveries, hoping that these new players will be ready for battle in the President's Cup pre-season tournament.
