Jaén Paraíso Interior Secures Brazilian Talent Rikelme Alves Ribeira on Two-Year Deal
In a significant boost to their squad for the upcoming season, Jaén Paraíso Interior has secured the services of Brazilian wing Rikelme Alves Ribeira from Burela FS on a two-year contract. This marks the Andalusian club’s second signing of the transfer window as they look to strengthen their position in Spanish futsal.
The 24-year-old left-footed specialist joins as a free agent after completing four seasons with Burela, where he has developed into a formidable talent. Rikelme has been particularly impressive this season, leading his team’s scoring charts with 10 goals and demonstrating remarkable growth in his overall game.
“This season has been transformative for me compared to my first three years, which were quite challenging,” Rikelme recently told La Voz de Galicia. “I’ve found consistency and feel confident in my abilities. My development has been comprehensive—improving both offensively and defensively while becoming more tactically aware.”
his journey
The Brazilian reflected on his journey: “When I first arrived, opportunities were limited. Though I performed adequately when given the chance, I wasn’t a complete player yet—I needed time to develop and learn.”
Rikelme’s signing comes after he showcased his abilities directly against his future employers. Scoring the decisive goal in Burela’s recent 2-1 defeat at the Olivo Arena. His skill in one-on-one situations and exceptional left-foot control make him precisely the type of player that Jaén’s coach Dani Rodríguez has been seeking to add to his roster.
Before joining Burela at 19, Rikelme’s career began at Pula do Cat de Campinas in his native Brazil, followed by youth stints at Corinthians in the U-16 and U-18 categories. He made his professional debut in Brazil’s National League with Dourados during the 2020-21 season.
Rikelme joins Argentine defender Agustín ‘Power’ Raggiati as Jaén’s confirmed signings for next season. The club is also expected to add Catalan striker Eric Panés, who turns 24 in November, to their roster. Panés, who has impressed at Polish club Rekord, joined from Family Cash Alzira last season on a two-year contract with two additional optional years.
Jaén Paraíso Interior recently ended a concerning three-match losing streak with their 2-1 victory over Burela. Currently ninth in the standings with 36 points, they remain in playoff contention, sitting just one point behind Santa Coloma Industries and Osasuna Magna, and two points shy of Elpozo Murcia Costa Cálida. With four matches remaining in the regular season, coach Rodríguez emphasized the importance of regaining their competitive edge: “We need to focus on finding our form again rather than worrying about other teams. We must return to playing competitive futsal.”
