Did Punjab FC Just Sign Brazilian Defender Pablo Renan dos Santos for One Year?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Pablo Renan dos Santos joins Punjab FC on a one-year deal.
- He has extensive experience in international football.
- Pablo aims to impact the team during the Indian Super Cup 2025.
- His career includes stints in Brazil, Europe, and the Middle East.
- Pablo is committed to the success of Punjab FC and its supporters.
New Delhi, Oct 24 (NationPress) The Indian Super League team Punjab FC has officially confirmed the acquisition of experienced Brazilian centre-back Pablo Renan dos Santos on a one-year contract as of Friday.
The 33-year-old player arrives on a free transfer just in time for the Indian Super Cup 2025, which is set to commence in Goa on October 25.
This marks Punjab FC’s second foreign signing of the week, following the addition of Spanish midfielder Dani Ramirez on October 22. Known simply as Pablo, he brings a significant amount of international experience, having played in Brazil, Europe, and the Middle East throughout his more than ten-year career.
Expressing enthusiasm for his new venture in India, Pablo stated his desire to make a meaningful contribution. “Punjab FC is prepared for a remarkable season, and I am here to fight for the badge, the team, and the supporters who place their trust in us,” he said. “I am ready to embrace the challenge here in India.”
The Brazilian began his professional journey at Paysandu, where he spent six seasons in Brazil’s second and third divisions. In 2017, he made the transition to Europe, joining the Portuguese Primeira Liga club CS Marítimo, where he made 25 appearances and was commended for his defensive skills and composure. His impressive performances earned him a five-year contract with SC Braga in 2018.
During his time at Braga, Pablo further developed his skills through loan spells with clubs in Russia, Turkey, and Portugal — specifically Rubin Kazan, Hatayspor, and Moreirense — before moving to Saudi Arabia to join Al Raed for the 2022-23 Saudi Pro League season. Most recently, he played for the Armenian club FC Noah, where he made 13 appearances and scored an impressive four goals, showcasing his ability to influence both defensive and offensive play.
Speaking on the signing, Nikolaos Topoliatis, Technical Director of Punjab FC, highlighted Pablo’s significance to the team's strategy. “We are incredibly pleased to secure the signing of Pablo Renan dos Santos,” Topoliatis remarked. “Bringing in a centre-back of Pablo's caliber and experience was a key priority for us. He offers exceptional defensive leadership, positional awareness, and calmness under pressure.”