Malut United FC, a club recently promoted to Liga 1 for the 2024/25 season, made a significant move by signing Adriano Castanheira. The 31-year-old player brings experience from top-tier leagues in Portugal and Armenia. Officially announced on Thursday (13/6/2024), Castanheira becomes Malut United’s third foreign player and their ninth new signing.
Adriano Castanheira, born in Switzerland, spent most of his football career in Portugal. Before joining Malut United, he played for FC Ararat in Armenia, where he won the Armenian Cup in the 2023/24 season. Known for his versatility, Castanheira can operate in various positions, including attacking midfielder, right winger, and left winger. His flexibility is expected to add a new dimension to Malut United’s attacking strategies.
Castanheira’s football journey began at the Covilha academy in Portugal, a city known as the “Manchester of Portugal” due to its industrial history. He further honed his skills at FC Porto and Nacional academies before making his professional debut with SC Covilha in the Portuguese Second Division during the 2012/13 season. He then found success in the Portuguese First Division with Pacos Ferreira, including appearances in the Europa Conference League qualifiers.

One of Castanheira’s most memorable moments came during his time at FC Pacos de Ferreira. In the 2020/21 Portuguese League Cup, he scored a spectacular goal against FC Porto, guarded by Portugal national team goalkeeper Diogo Costa. This goal, scored from outside the penalty box after outmaneuvering Colombian winger Luis Diaz, who now plays for Liverpool, showcased his calmness and skill in crucial situations.
Castanheira’s career extends beyond Portugal. His time with FC Ararat Armenia enriched his experience with international tournaments such as the Europa Conference League. This European experience is a valuable asset for Malut United as they prepare for the challenges of Liga 1 Indonesia.
Known for his flexibility, Castanheira can play multiple roles in midfield and attack. Throughout his career, he has played as an attacking midfielder, right winger, and left winger. This versatility provides coach Imran Nahumarury with various tactical options to enhance the team’s performance. Castanheira’s ability to orchestrate attacks and create opportunities makes him a valuable addition to Malut United.

Adriano Castanheira joins two other foreign players, Tatsuro Nagamatsu from Japan and Wbeymar Angulo from Armenia. Nagamatsu is a midfielder with excellent vision, while Angulo is a defensive midfielder with significant international experience. This mix of foreign and local players is expected to bolster Malut United’s strength in the competitive Liga 1.
“The presence of Castanheira alongside other foreign players brings a new dynamic to the team,” said Willem D. Nanlohy, COO of Malut United. “The excellent combination of foreign and local players will enhance Malut United’s strength amid the fierce competition in Liga 1.”
Malut United coach Imran Nahumarury also commented on the foreign player signings. “We don’t bring in players just because of their big names. The selection of players is purely based on the team’s needs,” Nahumarury emphasized.
With the addition of experienced players like Castanheira, Malut United hopes to compete with the top teams in Liga 1. The solid combination of local and foreign players is expected to yield positive results for this newly promoted team. Fans of the Laskar Kie Raha are eager to see their beloved team perform impressively and achieve the goals set by the management and coach.
With thorough preparation and full support from the fans, Malut United is ready to face the 2024/25 Liga 1 season with high spirits and optimism. The arrival of Adriano Castanheira is expected to be a crucial part of the team’s successful journey ahead.