HYDERABAD, INDIA: Sreenidi Deccan FC are set to add one more overseas face to their squad ahead of the new season, after Brazilian forward Vitinho was announced last week. Now, Portuguese midfielder Adriano Castanheira is expected to join the Deccan Warriors.
The duo arrive as Sreenidi look to build a squad capable of challenging for promotion under new coach Antonio Rueda. Castanheira has played in Portugal, Armenia and Indonesia, while Vitinho arrives after spells in Bulgarian football. The duo’s arrival lends depth to Sreenidi Deccan, who will first get a chance to test their new-look squad in the IFA Shield in Kolkata.
Castanheira offers experience, versatility and a proven record abroad
Castanheira will arrive at Sreenidi Deccan with a career that has taken him through Portugal, Armenia and Indonesia. The Portuguese midfielder began his senior career with SC Covilhã before going on to represent clubs such as Benfica Castelo Branco, UD Leiria, Paços de Ferreira, Chaves and Penafiel.
His move abroad came in 2023 when he joined Ararat-Armenia, whom he helped win the Armenian Cup. Castanheira then moved to Indonesia, joining Malut United for the 2024-25 season. He made 33 appearances for Malut United, scoring two goals and providing five assists.
After this, he moved to Persis Solo last season. There, he made 12 league appearances. A versatile attacking midfielder who can also operate on either flank, Castanheira gives Sreenidi an experienced creative option as they prepare for their promotion push into the Indian Super League (ISL).
Vitinho brings a young attacking profile to Sreenidi Deccan
Victor Hugo de Oliveira Teister, known as Vitinho, is a 24-year-old Brazilian attacker who can operate as a centre-forward, left winger or attacking midfielder. He began his senior career in Brazil before moving to Bulgaria, where he joined Septemvri Sofia in 2024.
He made 29 league appearances for Septemvri during the 2024-25 season, starting 11 matches and scoring once. Vitinho then moved to Montana for the 2025-26 campaign, making 10 league appearances.
With David Castañeda leading the line and wearing the captain’s armband, Vitinho’s ability to play in various areas across the frontline could give Sreenidi Deccan greater flexibility in attack. His versatility will allow Castañeda to receive support while giving the team another option to alter its attacking shape if needed.
A squad taking shape ahead of the IFA Shield
Sreenidi Deccan have retained key players such as Pape Gassama, Kamaljit Singh and Ajay Chhetri, while bringing in the likes of Pritam Kotal, Rochharzela, Lalbiakdika, Pronay Halder and Jerry Mawihmingthanga.
The squad certainly looks strong on paper, and the IFA Shield will provide a good opportunity to see how that potential translates onto the pitch. With Rueda taking charge for the first time, this tournament will give him valuable time to assess his squad, build combinations and prepare the team for the season ahead.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE – Khalid Jamil and AIFF must be lauded for visionary Indian football selection
Cover image courtesy: Sreenidi Deccan FC
If you liked this article, you can consider subscribing to our website to stay in touch with the latest updates in sports. You can also follow India Sports Tribune on X, Instagram and YouTube. We would love to talk to you!
Leave a Reply