Persib Adds Sergio Castel, Bojan Hodak's New Option in Attack
Source: Antara/PR-Persib Bandung
Persib Bandung didn't wait long to take action. Looking ahead to the second round of the BRI Super League 2025/26 and the challenge in the AFC Champions League Two, Maung Bandung has bolstered their firepower by signing Spanish striker Sergio Castel.
This signing underscores the club's ambition to maintain domestic dominance and compete in Asia.
Deputy CEO of PT Persib Bandung Bermartabat, Adhitia Putra Herawan, stated that Castel's arrival came on the direct recommendation of head coach Bojan Hodak, who wanted to add options and depth to the forward line during this crucial phase of the season.
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“Persib and Bobotoh warmly welcome you to Bandung. We hope Sergio can make his maximum contribution over the next half season to help Persib defend their championship title,” said Adhitia on Thursday, February 5th, 2026.
Castel, a striker born in Las Rozas on February 22nd, 1995, arrives from Cypriot First Division club Apollon Limassol FC and has signed a contract until the end of the 2025/26 season.
His experience across various levels of European competition is expected to have an immediate impact on the team's performance.
With Apollon Limassol, Castel made 11 appearances, scoring three goals. Previously, he also played for Anorthosis Famagusta, netting 12 goals in 32 matches.
In his homeland, Castel was known as a striker in Spain's second tier, Liga Espana.
He played for UD San Sebastian de los Reyes between 2017-2019, scoring 15 goals in 51 games, then represented UD Ibiza from 2021-2023, scoring 16 goals in 69 appearances.
His experience grew further during his time at Malaga CF in the 2024/25 season, enriching his understanding of fast-paced play and tight duels.
Persib places great hope on Castel's adaptability, especially facing the packed schedule of domestic and Asian competitions that demand squad rotation and depth.
“We are confident Sergio can adapt quickly and become an important part of the team's journey this season,” he said.
The arrival of Sergio Castel completes Persib's transfer moves for the second half of the season.
Previously, Persib had already signed Layvin Kurzawa and Dion Markx as part of their strategy to build a more balanced and competitive squad.
