Lucas Ribeiro Costa Makes Debut for Cultural y Deportivo Leonesa After Controversial Sundowns Exit

Lucas Ribeiro Costa has finally made his first appearance for his new club, Cultural y Deportivo Leonesa, following a controversial exit from Mamelodi Sundowns. The Brazilian attacker completed his transfer last month after forcing his way out of Chloorkop during the last transfer window.

The circumstances surrounding Ribeiro’s departure from Sundowns remain under review. Reports indicate that the matter has been submitted to the FIFA Tribunal, which handles football-related disputes and regulatory issues. The Tribunal is divided into three chambers: the Dispute Resolution Chamber, the Players’ Status Chamber, and the Agents Chamber. It has the authority to impose sanctions under FIFA statutes and the Disciplinary Code on clubs, players, officials, and agents. Decisions can also be appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

While the legal and administrative processes continue, Ribeiro has begun life on the field in Spain. On Monday, he made his debut for Leonesa in a Segunda División match against Albacete Balompié, coming on as a substitute in the 75th minute for Diego Collado. The match ended in a 0-0 draw. This appearance followed two matches where Ribeiro was an unused substitute.

Ribeiro arrives at Leonesa with an impressive record. During two seasons at Sundowns, he recorded 60 goals and assists in 88 appearances, earning accolades including PSL Footballer of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season, Top Goal Scorer, and Goal of the Season. His strike at the Club World Cup was voted best goal, heightening his profile and attracting interest from clubs in Qatar and Brazil.

Leonesa, however, are struggling in the Segunda División, currently positioned in the relegation zone after eight games. Ribeiro’s arrival is expected to boost the team’s attacking options as they look to improve their standing.

The focus now shifts to Ribeiro’s performance in Spain and the ongoing discussions regarding his transfer from Sundowns. His debut marks a new chapter for the Brazilian forward, one that will be closely watched by both fans and football authorities as the season progresses.