Matanisiga is Bula FC’s first signing

Gabiriele Matanisiga has created history being the first player to sign up for the Bula Football Club for next year’s OFC (Oceania Football Confederation) Pro league. 

This was announced yesterday. 

The 30-year-old defender hails from Nukubalavu, Savusavu, Cakaudrove. 

He boasts 18 caps for Fiji, with a career highlighted by stints at Rewa and Wellington Olympic. 

His defensive skills shone in tournaments like the FMF IDC 2025, where he earned Player of the Match, and the Pacific Community Cup 2025 Golden Ball. 

From sugarcane cutter to professional footballer, the eldest child left school early to support his siblings. 

“Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations,” he said. 

“It’s a dream for me to become a professional footballer and join Bula FC.” 

“From sugarcane cutter to be a professional footballer is a big change for me. I dropped out of school early as the eldest to help my siblings chase their careers; while squeezing in my own training. God heard me. He answers our cries and feels our hearts.” 

Matanisga stands at 1.94m and joins from Rewa as a centre-back. 

Interim chairman Marc McElrath said Bula FC will announce further signings in the coming days as they roll out pre-season preparations as a professional club in the OFC Pro League scheduled to kick off in January 2026.