Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), the reigning champions of Liga Super Malaysia, have officially announced the signing of Jesé Rodriguez, a 31-year-old Spanish forward, for the 2024/25 season.
The transfer was confirmed via the club’s Johor Southern Tigers social media platform, signaling a major addition to JDT’s already star-studded lineup.
“Jesé Rodriguez has played for some of the biggest clubs and in all major divisions. The two-time UEFA Champions League winner is now part of the JDT family,” the club proudly stated.
The former Stoke City forward joins a robust foreign contingent at JDT, which includes Jorge Obregón, Andoni Zubiaurre, Eddy Israfilov, Park Jun-heong, Iker Undabarrena, and Enzo Lombardo. These players have strengthened the squad as JDT continues to strive for excellence in both domestic competitions and the AFC Champions League Elite 2024/25.
Rodriguez’s arrival marks yet another instance of a La Liga superstar joining the Malaysian League (M League). JDT supporters have previously welcomed international talents like Dani Guiza, Pablo Aimar, and Luciano Figueroa, who made a lasting impact in Malaysian football. Jesé’s reputation as a former Real Madrid star and Paris Saint-Germain player positions him as a highly anticipated figure to add to this elite group.
Before signing with JDT, Jesé had a diverse career that saw him play for some of the top clubs around the world. After starting his professional journey with Real Madrid, where he rose from the youth ranks to the senior squad, he made a €25 million move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2016. Although he struggled to establish himself at PSG, he had loan spells at Las Palmas, Stoke City, Real Betis, and Sporting Lisbon, where he demonstrated his versatility as both a winger and forward.
Most recently, Rodriguez played for Brazilian side Coritiba, following stints with Sampdoria (Italy) and Ankaragücü (Turkey). His wealth of experience across various leagues will undoubtedly boost JDT’s attacking options as they aim to maintain their dominance in Malaysian football.
Credit Photo : JST
