News

​Madura United Secures Joao 'Balotelli' Pereira to Bolster Attack Ahead of 2025–26 Season

​Madura United Secures Joao 'Balotelli' Pereira to Bolster Attack Ahead of 2025–26 Season

Madura United has officially announced the signing of Joao Pereira Albertine, popularly known as Balotelli, ahead of the 2025–26 Liga 1 season. The club's management sees this addition as a strategic move to enhance their attacking strength, especially after past struggles with inconsistency in the striker position. Balotelli’s arrival is expected to bring much-needed stability and finishing power to the squad.
The 28-year-old forward joins Madura United after a season with PSM Makassar, where he registered five goals and one assist in 14 appearances. His performance last season was considered solid and consistent enough to attract interest from Madura United, which had been evaluating multiple striker candidates before ultimately settling on him as their top choice.
Club president Achsanul Qosasi confirmed that Balotelli was selected after a thorough and reasoned discussion among the coaching staff and management. He expressed confidence that the new signing fits into the team’s system, especially given the club's recent improvements in midfield, which are designed to support and supply their main striker more effectively.
With Balotelli now part of the squad, Madura United still has two foreign player slots remaining, though those will not be filled by goalkeepers. The club continues to build its roster carefully with a clear focus on strengthening specific areas, and Balotelli is anticipated to play a central role in Madura United’s ambition to contend at the top of the league this season.