Arema FC coach Marcos Santos bluntly about the rules of 11 foreign players

Arema FC coach, Marcos Santos, gave a response about new regulations that allowed the team to have up to 11 foreign players in the Super League. According to him, even though this rule is positive, the club must be prepared to improve the quality of the squad to remain competitive. “This rule is legitimate, as long as the club is ready to compensate with a competitive squad,” Santos said.

The regulation was implemented by PSSI and PT Liga Indonesia Baru (LIB), which has now been transformed into I League. Each team is allowed to register 11 foreign legions, although only 8 players can be included in the list of players (DSP) for one match. This certainly adds to the dynamics in league competition.

Marcos Santos admitted that he had accepted the decision and stated the importance of obeying regulations. “Yes, I already know the decision from PSSI. I have to follow the regulation,” he continued during a press conference at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium, Bandung Regency. This statement shows Santos’s commitment to carry out league policies for the good of the team.

Even so, the Brazilian coach also reminded Arema FC’s management not to hesitate to increase the quota of foreign players if they want to compete at the top. “Of course it must be better prepared if finally Arema must buy more players to be on the standings,” he said. According to him, each club must not only meet the number of players, but also qualified quality to face other teams who also take advantage of this new rules.

Foreign player Arema FC this season

At present, Arema FC has eight foreign players for the 2025/2026 season. They have participated in the 2025 Presidential Cup Pre -season tournament. The following is a list of foreign players owned by Arema FC:

1. Lucas Cold
2. Thales Lira
3. Julián Guevara
4. Dalberto
5. Paulinho Moccelin
6. Valdeci Moreira
7. Odivan Koerich
8. Yann accepted

The existence of quite a number of foreign players gives the chance for Arema FC to achieve better results in the coming season. With tight competition, an additional one or two more foreign players can be the key to the team’s success.

This new regulation is expected to not only increase competition, but also encourage clubs to improve the quality of football in Indonesia. With the transfer window still open, Arema FC certainly has time to adjust to these rules and carry out strategic movements in strengthening their squad.

Marcos Santos stressed the importance of club management to take firm steps in improving the quality of the team. “All other clubs that compete will definitely take advantage of this opportunity to increase the quota of their foreign players,” he said. This shows that new rules are not only a challenge, but also opportunities for teams to continue to grow.

Arema FC coach ended his statement with optimism. He believes that with the addition of the right foreign players, Arema can compete at the top of the standings. In this context, efforts to recruit quality players are very crucial before the competition is getting closer.

When asked about hopes for this season, Santos expects full support from management to achieve the targets set. Arema FC, with their potential, is expected to realize their ambitions in achieving achievements in the Super League.