Jakarta – Persija Jakarta has officially signed Brazilian midfielder Jean Mota. The 32-year-old player previously played alongside Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.
The transfer was announced by Persija Jakarta on Friday, February 6, 2026. Mota has signed a contract until the end of the season with an option for a one-year extension.
A video of Mota’s introduction was filmed at Jakarta Cathedral. He was shown praying for guidance in his career with Persija.
“I left home, crossing the oceans. But I never walked alone. Here, I will entrust all my dreams and strength,” Mota said in the video released by Persija Jakarta.
“In the name of God, I ask for blessings to honor this emblem. Courage to fight in every minute and humility to always give my best. For this club and this city,” he added.
Jean Mota brings a wealth of experience from Brazil. The São Paulo native has played for several top clubs in Brazil, including Portuguesa (2013-2015), Santos (2016-2022), and EC Vitoria (2024-2025).
In 2022, Mota joined Major League Soccer club Inter Miami. He played alongside superstar Lionel Messi in Vice City from 2023-2024.
A prayer before the journey begins. Welcome to Jakarta, Jean Mota 🤝🔴#WelcomeMota #Persija pic.twitter.com/t6TAykCG8f
— Persija Jakarta (@Persija_Jkt) February 6, 2026
At Inter Miami, Mota played in 53 matches across all competitions, scoring 3 goals and providing 7 assists. He was part of the team that won the 2023 Leagues Cup, a trophy for the club owned by David Beckham.
Persija Jakarta hopes Mota’s experience will bolster the team’s competitiveness in the pursuit of its goals this season. He is expected to add variety to Macan Kemayoran’s rhythm of play with his vision and midfield control.
The arrival of Mota follows the earlier signings of Fajar Faturrahman, Paulo Ricardo, Shayne Pattynama, Alaeddine Ajaraie, and Mauro Zijlstra, demonstrating Persija’s ambition during the mid-season transfer window of the 2025-2026 Super League.
While Persija had previously been linked with Ivar Jenner, the Indonesian international reportedly joined Dewa United. Mota was identified as a replacement, bringing with him a proven track record from his time in Brazilian football.
According to Transfermarkt, Mota spent a significant period with Brazilian giants Santos from 2016 to 2022, scoring 19 goals and providing 26 assists in 255 appearances across all competitions. He most recently played for EC Vitoria and Vila Nova FC before returning to the Super League.
The signing of a player with experience alongside one of the world’s greatest footballers is a clear statement of intent from Persija Jakarta. Mota’s creativity and ability to dictate play will be crucial as the club aims to challenge for the Super League title.
