27.08.2025
Reading time: 3 min

Persib Bandung Welcomes Two New Ammunitions: Federico Barba and Thom Haye

Federico Barba dan Thom Haye resmi diperkenalkan Persib Bandung sebagai pemain baru musim 2025/2026

Parimatch News Indonesia – Persib Bandung has once again made a big splash in the transfer market. On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, Maung Bandung officially introduced two new recruits at once: Federico Barba, a 31-year-old Italian center-back, and Thom Haye, a 30-year-old Indonesian National Team midfielder.

This announcement was uniquely made through a broadcast on TVRI West Java, a move considered a tribute to the club’s history and tradition. Persib’s mascot, Prabu, appeared in the broadcast to personally mention the names of the two new players with a warm greeting: “Wilujeng Sumping!”

Federico Barba : An Italian Fortress for Persib’s Defense

Born in Rome on September 1, 1993, Federico Barba is a center-back with extensive experience at the European level. His professional career began at the AS Roma academy before he then made his way in Serie A with Empoli. Throughout his career, Barba also played for Chievo VeronaReal Valladolid (Spain), BeneventoPisa, and most recently reinforced FC Sion in the Swiss Super League.

With a height of 185 cm and a disciplined Italian playing style, Barba is known as a strong defender in aerial duels, tactical in reading attack directions, and calm in guarding the backline.

Reasons Persib signed him:

Last season, Persib’s defense was often criticized for inconsistency. Barba’s presence is expected to provide stability and international experience. Barba also comes with a reputation as a leader in the backline, something Persib needs to compete in the Super League.

Thom Haye : The Brain of the Indonesian National Team’s Game

The name Thom Haye may already be familiar to Indonesian football fans. Born in Amsterdam on February 9, 1995, Haye grew up in the AZ Alkmaar academy and made his Eredivisie debut with the club. His journey then took him to Willem IILecce (Italy), SC Heerenveen, and most recently Almere City.

Haye is known as a complete midfielder—he has sharp game vision, can control tempo, and has high-precision passing. Since his naturalization process was completed in 2024, he immediately became an important part of the Indonesian National Team, even earning the nickname “The Professor” for his intelligence on the field.

Reasons Persib signed him:
Persib needed a rhythm-setter in the midfield after losing consistency last season. Haye not only brings technical quality but also experience playing in top European leagues. He is expected to be an attacking engine as well as a mentor for Persib’s young players.

Persib’s management appears to want to balance the squad to face a tough season:

  • Barba strengthens the backline with calmness and international experience.
  • Haye provides creativity and control in midfield, while also adding a local touch through his status as an Indonesian National Team player.

The combination of the two is believed to be able to increase Persib’s competitiveness, both in the domestic title race and in facing regional competitions.

Warm Welcome from Bobotoh

It didn’t take long for this news to be enthusiastically welcomed by Bobotoh. Persib’s social media was filled with positive comments, many calling Barba the “new wall” and Haye the “professor” who will orchestrate Maung Bandung’s game.

With the official arrival of Federico Barba and Thom Haye, Persib Bandung shows its seriousness in building a solid team for the 2025/2026 season. Both are not just new players, but symbols of the club’s ambition to continue to be at the top. Now, the next challenge is how they adapt to Persib’s playing style and prove their quality in front of Bobotoh.