Ulsan Hyundai diversified its attacking options by signing Brazilian forward Eric Farias.
With the addition of forward Eric, who can operate at both the front and the sides, Ulsan has gained a powerful attacking option.
Eric, who has come to wear Ulsan's blue uniform after playing as a regular forward in Brazil's first division, boasts goal-scoring ability based on his small but sturdy physique and strength.
Eric moved to Ulsan after starting in 10 matches in the regional league that kicked off in January, scoring 3 goals. He started as a striker in 6 matches, as a left winger in 3 matches, and as a right winger in 1 match, showcasing his strengths.
Eric spent his youth career at Brazil's prestigious Grêmio. He made his professional debut at Vejle BK in Denmark and gained experience playing in Brazil's second and third divisions.
Eric's true value began to shine in the 2023 season. While playing for the third division's Ipiranga FC, Eric made headlines by scoring in five consecutive matches after the season's start, totaling 7 goals. Noticing Eric's performance, EC Juventude, then in the second division, signed him, and in the following season, he began the season with the team in the first division.
In his first season in the first division, Eric appeared in 35 league matches, recording 5 goals and 3 assists, solidifying his position as the team's main forward.
Within the Ulsan organization, Eric is evaluated as 'a type of forward that the team has been lacking' and as a player with excellent 'ball-keeping ability, dribbling, and shooting,' leading to the confirmation of his signing. The synergy between Eric, who plays freely in attacking areas, tall forward Heo Yul, and the technical and versatile Rakaba is expected.
Moreover, this signing of Eric reflects Ulsan's ambition to continue as the top scoring team for three consecutive seasons, having been the highest scoring team in the last two seasons: 2023 season (63 goals) and 2024 season (62 goals).
Joining Ulsan, which is set to make its first Asian stage challenge, especially in major international tournaments like the FIFA Club World Cup and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League, Eric said, "Since 2018, I haven't had a championship trophy. On the other hand, I know Ulsan has won the K League 1 three times and is in a position to participate in the best international stage for Asian teams. This was attractive in making my decision to transfer. At the same time, I am aware that it is a team with many good players, which I have also considered for the competition. My goal is to win every match and to score as many attacking points as possible. I will show my best performance as soon as possible."
Meanwhile, Eric Farias will compete in the K League 1 under the registered name 'Eric' and jersey number '97'.
[Photo] Provided by Ulsan.
[OSEN = Reporter Woo Chung-won]