MANILA, Philippines—Bracing for tougher battles this year, Global FC unveiled a strengthened squad that will defend the UFL league title and represent the country in the Asian Football Confederation Cup.
A slew of newcomers, including former Azkals defender Ray Jonsson and former Japan Under-20 standout Masaki Yanagawa, were introduced in a glittering ceremony at Makati Shangri-La Tuesday night.
Speaking at the gala night, Global owner Dan Palami expressed hopes of making a bigger impact on international competitions.
Global starts its campaign against Hong Kong’s South China on Feb. 25 with the club eyeing either the Philippine Stadium in Bulacan or Rizal Memorial Stadium as the venue for its home match.
“Global is deeply humbled to have the distinct opportunity as the first Filipino football club to qualify for the prestigious AFC Cup,” said Palami.
Palami also reiterated Global’s mission of being more than just a club, vowing to continue football-related and civic projects particularly in the club’s home city, Tacloban, Leyte.
Mexican midfielder Renato Gonzalez, US Soccer Academy player Rolf Schlettwein and Sam Bonney were also added to the lineup along with National U standout Paolo Salenga and Jonsson’s younger brother, Michael.
Global youth players John Kanayama, Mark Winhoffer and Marco Casambre were also unveiled as members of the side led by skipper Misagh Bahadoran and veterans Mark Hartmann, Izzo El-Habbib, Amani Aguinaldo, Daisuke Sato and Yu Hoshide.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano Araneta lauded Global for starting a club structure that is required by the AFC.