Cebu FC Overhauls Roster and Coaching Staff for 2024 PFL Campaign

Cebu FC is undergoing significant changes ahead of the 2024 Philippines Football League (PFL) season as they bid farewell to key players and coaching staff. Turkish striker Arda Çinkir, Cebuano forward Ivan Ouano, Ren Okuda, Ken Murayama, and Ryoo Togashi are among those departing from the club.

Çinkir, a vital player at just 21 years old, first joined Cebu FC in 2022 as part of a partnership with Turkish club Hatayspor. After a brief spell with Darıca Genclerbirliği last year, his next destination remains unknown. Ouano has returned to United City FC (UCFC) after nine appearances for Cebu FC, marking his second stint with UCFC.

Meanwhile, Togashi made a move to Hong Kong Premier League side Southern, while Okuda and Murayama are currently without a club. In addition to the player turnover, the coaching staff is also seeing changes with head coach Joshua Schirmer and assistant coach Mustafa Al-Saffar departing after a brief tenure.

Under Schirmer, Cebu FC achieved a historic milestone by participating in their first international tournament, the AFC Cup. Despite a third-place finish in Group F with one win, one draw, and one loss, the team was unable to advance to the knockout stage. They also fell short in the 2023 Copa Paulino Alcantara semifinals to Davao Aguilas.

Looking ahead to the upcoming PFL season, Cebu FC will face stiff competition from 14 other clubs, including defending champions Kaya FC-Iloilo, UCFC, Stallion FC-Laguna, and Davao Aguilas. With the largest number of participating teams in PFL history, Cebu FC will be eager to make their mark in the league.

In conclusion, Cebu FC’s significant changes in player roster and coaching staff signal a new chapter for the club as they gear up for the 2024 PFL season amidst heightened competition in the Philippines football landscape.

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Mohamed Suez

Meet Mohamed Suez, a die-hard Al-Hilal fan and one of our passionate contributors. Hailing from the football-mad nation of Saudi Arabia, Mohamed's articles are a heartfelt tribute to the triumphs and tribulations of his beloved club. As an Al-Hilal insider, Mohamed offers readers an intimate look into the fan culture, historic moments, and the unwavering loyalty that defines being a supporter of the "Blue Wave."