Selangor FC have officially begun a major squad rebuild ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, confirming the departure of star winger Alvin Fortes alongside 11 other first-team players as the Red Giants prepare for a new chapter.
Fortes leaves Shah Alam after two memorable seasons, bringing an end to a spell that saw him establish himself as one of the Malaysia Super League’s most dangerous attacking players.
Signed on 4 February 2024, the Cape Verde international quickly became a fan favourite with his explosive pace, trademark left foot and ability to produce decisive moments in big matches.
Across two seasons, Fortes amassed 79 appearances, 5,085 minutes played, 33 goals, 17 assists.
His debut campaign proved exceptional, contributing 20 goals and seven assists, earning both the Best Signing and Player of the Season honours at the SFC Fans’ Choice Awards 2024/25.
One of his most remarkable achievements came during the 2024/25 season, when he became the only Selangor player to score in all five major competitions
The feat highlighted his consistency regardless of the competition.
Among his unforgettable performances were his brace against Perak FC in Ipoh, his dazzling display against Terengganu FC, and his spectacular match-winning free-kick after coming off the bench against Penang FC.
His club performances also earned him a long-awaited return to the Cape Verde national football team in 2025, marking his first international call-up since 2018.
Beyond his individual brilliance, Fortes played an instrumental role in Selangor’s resurgence, helping the club finish runners-up in the Malaysia Super League in consecutive seasons while qualifying for continental competitions, including the AFC Champions League Two and the ACC Shopee Cup. He also contributed to Selangor’s MFL Challenge Cup triumph and an FA Cup final appearance.
The club simultaneously confirmed the exits of 11 additional players, thanking each for their commitment and contribution during their time in the Red and Yellow.
Among the notable departures is commanding defender Mamadou Diarra, who made 27 appearances while providing leadership and defensive stability after arriving midway through the season.
Goalkeeper Samuel Somerville leaves after making 51 appearances and recording 19 clean sheets, producing several memorable performances including crucial victories over Kedah Darul Aman FC and Kuala Lumpur City FC.
Jordan international Mohammad Abualnadi departs following 53 appearances, while experienced left-back Fazly Mazlan ends his stint after 94 appearances, having been one of Selangor’s most reliable defenders over several seasons.
South Korean duo Kim Ji-ho and Jeon Seung-min also leave after showing flashes of quality despite limited opportunities, while midfielder Mahame Siby concludes a brief spell with the club.
The departures also include academy graduates Harry Danish, Raimi Shamsul, and Omid Musawi, each representing the success of Selangor’s player development pathway after progressing into the senior squad.
Thai international Picha Autra, who later spent time on loan with Bangkok United FC, also departs after contributing a goal and an assist in 14 appearances.
The extensive list of departures signals the beginning of a new era for Selangor FC as preparations continue for the 2026/27 season.
Credit Photo : HongZheng Lim/SNE-Photo
