Cebu FC Introduces Five New Players in Preparation for the AFC Champions League

CEBU CITY, Philippines—Dynamic Herb Cebu Football Club has proudly unveiled five new acquisitions to enhance their squad in preparation for the forthcoming AFC Champions League 2 season set to commence later this month. This strategic announcement follows the recent appointment of veteran Turkish coach Mustafa Ati Göksu, who has come onboard with a newly formed coaching staff.

The newly signed players—Samuel Erik Strong, Masaya Kobayashi, Kainoa Bailey, Daniel Aleixo, and John Lucero—are anticipated to significantly augment the team’s capabilities as they gear up for their international competition.

This recruitment is particularly pivotal in light of the club’s recent departures, which included notable players such as Yoji Sellman, Kintaro Miyagi, Ace Villanueva, Glenn Thomas Ramos, John Renz Saldivar, and Turkish midfielder Göktuğ Demiroğlu.

Samuel Erik Strong, an American defender, adds considerable experience to the backline, having previously represented teams such as Fresno FC, Hartford Athletic, Monterey Bay Union, Central Valley Fuego, and Rajpracha FC. Strong boasts a notable record, having made an appearance for the United States U23 National Team.

Joining him is Masaya Kobayashi, a Japanese defender who arrives from DV Solingen in Germany’s Landesliga, with a career that spans stints at Fortuna Köln II, FSV Duisburg, and clubs in Japan, including Chukyo University and FC AWJ.

Kainoa Bailey, a Filipino-American winger, transitions to Cebu FC from Indonesia’s Persikabo 1973 FC, having previously showcased his talents with Stallion Laguna FC in the Philippine Football League.

Furthermore, Brazilian forward Daniel Aleixo, who joins from FC Serpa in Portugal, brings his extensive experience in Taça de Portugal and has played in Brazil and Macau, enriching the attacking options for the Gentle Giants.

Lastly, John Lucero, a midfielder and product of the Premier League Cup U17 program in England, has represented the Philippine Men’s National Football Team in both the Southeast Asian Games and a friendly match in Kuwait, despite growing up in England.

These strategic signings exemplify Cebu FC’s aspirations within the AFC Champions League 2, as they endeavor to leave a significant imprint on the international football landscape.