Veteran striker from Chad, Ezechiel Ndouassel, has been confirmed to join Persela for the 2024/25 season. This news has come as a surprise to football fans in Indonesia, given Ezechiel’s impressive performance despite his age being over 35.
Previously, Ezechiel played for another Liga 2 club, Bekasi City, during the 2023/24 season. His performance with Bekasi City was commendable, contributing significantly to the club’s goal tally. However, despite his noteworthy performance, several reasons explain why Liga 1 clubs have been reluctant to sign him.

One of the primary factors is Ezechiel’s attitude on the field. Despite his ability to score goals, Ezechiel often displays a temperamental and easily angered demeanor. This has frequently resulted in yellow cards and even red cards, which can be detrimental to the team. When a key player like Ezechiel has to miss games due to card accumulation or suspension, it puts the club at a disadvantage.
Additionally, Ezechiel’s age is another consideration for Liga 1 clubs. At over 35 years old, there are doubts about his physical ability and stamina to compete at the highest level of Indonesian football. While his experience and goal-scoring ability are undeniable, many clubs prefer to invest in younger players with long-term potential.

However, Persela’s decision to sign Ezechiel indicates that the club sees value in this veteran striker. Ezechiel’s experience in various clubs and competitions can be a valuable asset for Persela, especially in mentoring younger players. Moreover, his sharpness in front of the goal remains a threat to opponents and could be a solution for Persela in their quest for success next season.
With Ezechiel’s arrival, Persela supporters hope that the Chadian striker can make a significant contribution and help the team achieve their goals. Despite doubts due to his age and attitude on the field, no one can predict how Ezechiel will perform in the upcoming season. What is certain is that with the right determination and spirit, Ezechiel Ndouassel can still be a star on the field and bring surprises to Indonesian football fans.