Transfer Window Updates: ElPozo Murcia’s Market Moves and Brazilian National Team News
ElPozo Murcia’s Winter Transfer Strategy
ElPozo Murcia Costa Cálida recently considered acquiring Benfica’s Brazilian pivot Higor Ribeiro de Souza during the winter transfer window. However, the club’s primary focus on finding a replacement for former coach Dani Martínez led them to postpone any potential transfer discussions until June. Financial constraints and the desire to consult with their new coach, Josan González, also influenced this decision.
Higor’s journey in professional futsal has been noteworthy. After leaving Palma Futsal in September 2022 following Benfica’s €180,000 buyout clause payment, he initially faced challenges. A right foot metatarsal injury required surgery in January 2023, limiting him to just four appearances in his debut season. His second season showed marked improvement with 36 appearances and 16 goals, while the current season has seen him score 9 goals in 17 matches.
However, recent coaching changes at Benfica have affected Higor’s position. New coach Cassiano Klein’s preference for a 4-0 system and prioritization of Jacaré has reduced Higor’s playing time, despite having another year on his contract. This situation has led to Higor requesting a transfer to secure more playing time.
Squad Planning and Future Considerations
ElPozo Murcia’s roster planning remains in flux. While the club has secured renewals for Marcel, Edu Sousa, Ricardo Mayor, and David Álvarez, several key decisions await Josan González’s input. Current squad members Ricardinho, Rafa Santos, and César Velasco remain under contract, while Felipe Valerio is set to join Sporting in Portugal. Meanwhile, veterans Juanjo, Esteban, Marlon, and Gadeia’s contracts expire in June.
The club has also been exploring other options, including former youth product Francisco Paniagua. However, reports suggest that Movistar Inter has already reached an agreement with Peñíscola Serigroup’s left-wing player. Another former youth player, Alberto García, currently with Viña Albali Valdepeñas, has also been offered to the club.
Recent Performance and Brazilian National Team Updates
ElPozo Murcia recently ended their 11-game winless streak across all competitions with a convincing 6-1 victory over Second Division’s CFS Pinatar Zambú in the President Cup. This marked Josan González’s first win as head coach, following a 2-2 draw against Industrias Santa Coloma. The team will face Jimbee Cartagena in the final at Cehegín.
In international news, Brazil’s national team coach Marquinhos Xavier has announced his squad for an upcoming tournament in São José Dos Pinhais, Paraná, scheduled for March 3-9. The selection features seven World Cup champions, with Palma Futsal contributing four players, including newcomers Marcelo and Fabinho. The team will compete against Afghanistan, Greenland, and Iran, featuring talented players from various clubs including Russian, Spanish, and Saudi Arabian teams.
