Rodrigo Moledo, the experienced 37-year-old defender, is the newest addition to Coritiba FC as part of their preparations for the 2025 season. Having previously played for the club Internacional and more recently for Chapecoense, Moledo brings substantial experience as Coritiba looks to bolster its squad.
Moledo made his way to Curitiba last week to undergo medical examinations and has already joined the team for their pre-season training camp taking place in Itu, São Paulo. This year, Coritiba has already made five signings including Moledo, who will help the team aim for greater success after struggling last season.
After being signed by Chapecoense last July, Moledo faced significant challenges throughout the past year. He suffered injuries and managed to play only three matches, with one additional appearance for the B team. This limited game time followed his suspension due to doping allegations where he tested positive for ostarine, a performance-enhancing substance banned by FIFA, during the 2023 Libertadores.
Before his challenges at Chapecoense, Moledo had two successful stints with Internacional between 2011-2015 and 2018-2023. During both periods, he celebrated victories such as conquering the Gauchão championship three times between 2011 and 2013, and winning the 2011 Recopa Sudamericana. His long career also includes international experience, having played for clubs like Metalist in Ukraine and Panathinaikos in Greece.
Regarding Coritiba's roster changes, Moledo isn't the only new face. The club has also signed the right-back Rafinha from São Paulo, midfielder Geovane from Novorizontino, and attackers Dellatorre and Caio Matheus, both of whom have impressive records at their previous clubs. The Coxa, as Coritiba is known, hopes these reinforcements will help secure their return to competing at the highest levels of Brazilian football.
The club’s ambitions are clear as they prepare for their first match of the new year against Londrina on January 12, 2025. With their recent signings, Coritiba is gearing up not just to compete, but to make significant strides toward improving their standings after the previous season.
With Coritiba actively searching for additional defensive reinforcements, potential targets include Maicon from Vasco da Gama, reflecting the club's intent to build a cohesive and competitive team for the challenges of the upcoming season.
Moledo’s arrival marks not only another step for Coritiba’s restructuring ambitions but also offers the defender another chance at revitalizing his football career after overcoming recent setbacks. Fans are optimistic about what the future holds with their new signing potentially making substantial contributions on the field.
Following the announcement of Moledo's signing, Coritiba’s official Twitter account extended him a warm welcome, emphasizing the excitement surrounding his addition, "Welcome, Rodrigo Moledo! 💚✍🏽 We wish you much success with the alviverde jersey!").
Overall, as Coritiba gears up for the 2025 season, they are banking on Moledo's leadership and experience to help guide the team through the challenges of the Campeonato Paranaense and beyond, ensuring they can make their mark and strive for greatness.