Persis Solo Sign Vico Duarte, Foreign Player Surplus in Second Tier Raises Selection Dilemma

Persis Solo has once again shaken up the second-tier transfer market by signing Brazilian winger Vico Duarte to sharpen their attacking line for the 2026/2027 Pegadaian Championship. The move signals Laskar Sambernyawa's ambition to return to the top flight promptly, even as it raises the issue of a foreign-player quota that exceeds regulations.

Vico, who has just turned 29, is no newcomer to Indonesian football. He has played for PSS Sleman, Dewa United, Malut United, and most recently Java United. His experience in the top tier is expected to be an added value for Ricky Nelson's squad, which is chasing a promotion ticket.

"I am happy and motivated to join Persis Solo. Hopefully I can score many goals for Persis Solo," Vico said in an official club statement. He also stressed that his main target is to lead Persis to the league title and promotion to Liga Utama.

Vico's arrival gives Persis five imported players. However, second-tier competition regulations limit each club to using only three foreign players. This situation forces the management to immediately drop two names before the competition progresses further.

Previously, Persis brought in three foreign players at the start of the season: Slavko Damjanovic, Juan Mera, and Henri Doumbia. Ahead of kick-off, they added Wbeymar Angulo. Now, with Vico's arrival, speculation over who will be cut is growing stronger.

National football observers see the excess quota as a consequence of the club's aggressive strategy to secure promotion quickly. "Persis indeed has big ambitions, but they must wisely choose foreign players who truly fit the coach's scheme," said an analyst who declined to be named.

Looking at the current composition, Juan Mera is said to be the leading candidate to be dropped. Meanwhile, after Vico's arrival, Slavko Damjanovic's name is also hanging in the balance. Both must compete fiercely with other foreign players who have already shown their contribution.

On the other hand, Persis's early-season performances have been inconsistent. They fell 0-2 at Persela Lamongan's home ground, but bounced back by thrashing PSBS Biak seven goals without reply. Vico's presence is expected to help maintain consistency in the attacking line.

"My target is to win this league and lead us to promotion to Liga Utama. I will give my best in every training session and match and contribute through goals and assists," Vico stressed.

For the Indonesian football public, Persis's case reflects how second-tier clubs are increasingly bold in bringing in quality foreign players. However, strict regulations require management to carefully assemble the squad so as not to violate the rules and remain competitive.

Going forward, Persis's decision on cutting two foreign players will test the management and coaching staff. Will they be able to keep the right players and lead Laskar Sambernyawa to Liga Utama? Time will tell, but their moves this season are worth watching closely.