Malik Risaldi Earns Tavares' Trust, But Must Still Compete for Place at Persebaya
Source: Antara Photo/Rizal Hanafi
Persebaya Surabaya coach Bernardo Tavares expressed his confidence in Malik Risaldi's quality. He stated that Malik is one of the local players needed by the Green Crocodile for competing in the BRI Super League 2025/2026.
Amid the competitive mid-season transfer market, Tavares believes Malik's presence is crucial for the team's balance. The former Madura United player is said to have the quality and flexibility required by Persebaya to compete in the remainder of the competition.
Tavares acknowledged that signing local players isn't easy, primarily because many players are already under contract with their respective clubs.
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However, he sees Malik as the right solution due to his ability to play in more than one position.
"It's not easy to bring in local players in this transfer window because local players are already under contract. But regardless, Malik can play as a winger, he can also play as a striker. Everyone must be ready, this is our target," he stated as quoted from the official I.League website on Friday.
This flexibility makes Malik a valuable option in Persebaya's game scheme.
He can be placed on the flanks or in the front line, depending on the team's needs and the strategy applied during the match.
So far, Malik Risaldi has appeared in 18 matches with Persebaya Surabaya in the Super League. His contribution includes one goal and two assists.
While acknowledging Malik as a quality local player, Tavares emphasized there are no guaranteed starting spots for anyone.
The coach from Portugal refused to hand out positions in the starting eleven for Free.
Tavares stressed that all players, including Malik, must work hard and compete fairly to earn the trust to play from the first minute.
"Whoever plays in this position must be ready and fit the characteristics of a player who plays there," said Tavares.
Meanwhile, regarding the possibility of Persebaya signing new players in the mid-season transfer window, Tavares chose to be realistic and keep all options open without providing certainty.
"I think the transfer window will close on February 6th [2025]. So anything is possible, let's see what happens," he concluded.
