Brazilian set to bring huge value as leading striker for Red Giants
PETALING JAYA: Brazilian striker Willian Lira may have arrived later than most of his teammates, but he is already looking right at home in Selangor.
Officially unveiled by the Red Giants on Thursday, the 31-year-old forward brings with him an impressive goal-scoring record in a bid to give his club the edge in the Super League this season.
He scored eight goals in 14 league matches for Kedah in 2023.
With experience in Malaysia already under his belt, Lira believes he's ready to hit the ground running.
'I chose Selangor because it's a strong and respected club,' said the striker from Fortaleza.
'Having played here before, I am familiar with the league's intensity, its rules, and many of the players. That makes my transition a lot smoother.
'But more than that, I came to help Selangor win. I want to contribute not just with goals, but with leadership and commitment on and off the pitch.'
Lira, who lifted the Emperor's Cup with Japan's Ventforet Kofu club in 2022, is expected to form a dynamic attacking formation upfront alongside compatriot Chrigor Moraes and winger Alvin Fortes of Cape Verde.
Lira is set to continue the legacy of former great Red Giants strikers like Rufino Segovia in 2018, Ifedayo Olesegun, who claimed back-to-back Golden Boots in 2020 and 2021, and Ayron Del Valle in 2023.
Last season, Chilean Ronnie Fernandez led the line but managed just 10 league goals, the same tally as winger Fortes.
'I've scored goals in different leagues, and I'm here to do the same for Selangor. This is a club with big ambitions, and I'm proud to be part of it,' added Lira.
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