Kelantan Red Warriors FC has secured Brazilian-born striker Wesley Barnaske to bolster the squad’s attacking prowess ahead of the second transfer window of the 2025/26 A1 Semi-Pro League season.
Barnaske arrived in Kota Bharu following a brief but impressive three-month stint in Malta’s second division with FC Gharb Rangers, where he netted 6 goals in just 5 appearances.
Early Career Promise
The towering 192cm forward began his career with Grêmio Esportivo Sapucaiense in 2019, making an immediate impact at youth level with an exceptional return of 13 goals in 11 matches. His clinical finishing earned him a senior contract with Brasil de Farroupilha, though his three-year spell there proved challenging with only 6 goals from 29 appearances before loan moves to Marau and Novo Hamburgo.
European Breakthrough
Recognizing the need for a fresh challenge, Barnaske made the bold move to Austria in 2022 to join SV Absdorf. The decision proved transformative. In his debut 2022/23 season, he exploded onto the scene with 24 goals from 23 matches, finishing as both the club and league’s top scorer.
His consistency continued into the 2023/24 campaign with 14 goals from 30 appearances, cementing his status as a fan favorite at SV Absdorf. His combined tally of 37 goals in 53 matches represents a remarkable strike rate rarely achieved by forwards at that level.
New Chapter with Red Warriors
Following a brief return to Brazil and his recent successful spell in Malta, Barnaske now brings his goal-scoring pedigree to Kelantan. His arrival provides Head Coach Irfan Bakti with enhanced tactical flexibility and quality depth in attack.
The Brazilian is expected to form a potent partnership with the Red Warriors’ current top scorer Emmanuel Mbarga, giving the team multiple offensive threats as they target greater success in the crucial second phase of the season starting this January.
Welcome to Kelantan, Wesley Barnaske!
GOMO KELATE GOMO
