New season reinforced by Alverca's 25th addition
Alverca, a Portuguese football club, is set to make a comeback to the national elite after a 21-year absence, and they've done so with a bang, signing defensive midfielder Sabit Abdulai.
Abdulai, known for his physical prowess and versatility, can play in central defense as well as his primary position in defensive midfield. The Portuguese club's statement highlights his versatility, which he demonstrated throughout his career.
The Ghanaian-born player began his career at Spartans in Ghana before embarking on a nomadic journey that has seen him play for multiple Spanish teams, including Spartans, Extremadura, Getafe, Ponferradina, Lugo, Murcia, and unspecified Paulista teams in Brazil. His most recent stint was with Botafogo SP in Brazil during the 2024/25 season.
Abdulai has also represented Ghana's youth national teams, showcasing his talent at an international level.
Alverca has been bolstering its squad for the upcoming season. In addition to Abdulai, they have signed several forwards, including Stéphane Diarra, Chiquinho, Junior Mendes, Cédric Nuozzi, Léó Chu, Tiago Leite, Marko Milovanovic, and Felipe Lima. The defensive line has also seen reinforcements with the signings of Kauan Gomes, Bastien Meupiyou, Steven Baseya, Naves, Isaac James, Ikker Julian, Lamine Ndiaye, Gonçalo Esteves, and unspecified other defenders. The goalkeeping department has also been strengthened with the acquisitions of André Paulo, Mateus, and André Gomes.
The Ribatejanos will face their first official match of the 2025/26 season against Moreirense at their stadium on August 10. The coach for this match will be Vasco Botelho da Costa.
Abdulai has expressed his happiness about joining Alverca, marking a new chapter in his career. The club will present itself to its members and fans today in a municipal garden initiative.
Despite a preseason defeat against Casa Pia (3-2), Alverca has impressively won friendlies against Leixões (1-0), Sporting de Braga B (1-0), Belenenses (2-0), Mafra (3-0), and Estoril Praia (2-1), and drew with Fafe (0-0). The team seems to be in high spirits as they prepare for their return to the national elite.
Football has been a significant part of Alverca's preparations for their return to the national elite, as they've bolstered their squad with the signing of versatile footballer Sabit Abdulai, who excels in both defensive midfield and central defense.
Abdulai, who has represented Ghana's youth national teams, brings his rich sports background to the Portuguese club, having played for multiple Spanish teams and Brazilian Paulista teams before his latest stint with Botafogo SP.