Matheus Lima returns to Bahrain for second season with A’ali after record finish | OneFootball

Matheus Lima, once likened to Lionel Messi in Santos’s academy, is heading back to Bahrain for his second year with A’ali FC after helping deliver the best league campaign in the club’s history. According to Diario Do Peixe, the 20-year-old attacking midfielder will continue his development in the Middle East.

In his debut season, A’ali finished fifth, their highest league placing. Lima featured in 17 matches, starting 11, scoring two goals and providing four assists.

After time off in Santos with family, friends and his girlfriend, he travels motivated to cement his place. He says his plan is to make each season better than the last, believes good results could bring offers from Bahrain or elsewhere, and wants only to improve his numbers and do his best.

Lima began in Meninos da Vila schools and joined Santos at nine, standing out for talent and leadership. He attracted attention from European media and drew Messi comparisons after a standout goal in the Paulista Under-13.

He launched his professional career in Bahrain, signing a three-year contract with A’ali. He judged his first year very good, saying the different country and culture taught him plenty and that both the team’s campaign and his own displays pleased him.

Adaptation was eased by fellow Brazilians, including former Santos forward Diego Cardoso. Lima profiles himself as a midfielder who gets into the box, creates, supplies the final pass and constantly seeks goals.

He had dreamed of a senior debut at Vila Belmiro, but embraced the move abroad and says he is happy in Bahrain. He retains affection for Santos and gratitude to the friends and coaches who shaped him.

Source: Diario Do Peixe