"They just arrived yesterday. They're still jet lagged and can't play in this match. These two players have never played in Indonesia before, and one of them has never even played outside of Brazil," Tavares said at the launch of Persebaya Official Merchandise at the Football Corner of Decathlon Pakuwon Mall Surabaya on Thursday.
According to the Portuguese coach, the management and coaching team agreed to give the two players time to understand the team's strategy and chemistry with their teammates.
Besides the technical aspects, he continued, familiarization with the Surabaya City environment is also considered crucial for their adaptation process.
According to him, the two players were recruited based on the availability of players in the transfer market and suitability with the club's budget.
"They came because they were free agents or could be released by their previous clubs. Furthermore, this fit within our budget. Persebaya is very professional in managing the club, especially in timely salary payments," he said.
Tavares emphasized that he would not forget about developing local and young players.
