Josimar Alcócer Joins Sparta

“Although Josimar is still a young player, he has adapted to European football without any problems. He already has two and a half years of experience in the highly competitive Belgian league, where he was a regular starter, and has earned more than 30 caps for the Costa Rica national team. He is capable of playing on either wing. In terms of his profile, he is a quick, physically strong and dynamic player who poses a threat both in structured possession and in quick transitions against an open defence,” says Tomáš Rosický, Sporting Director of AC Sparta Praha.

“He actively looks for one-on-one situations and has the pace and power to beat defenders, while always playing in a direct manner. At the same time, he is willing to work hard for the team off the ball, tracks back diligently in defence and is not afraid of physical duels. We believe our style of play will help him continue his development and take another significant step forward at Sparta,” Rosický adds.

Josimar developed through the ranks of Costa Rican side LD Alajuelense, based just outside the capital city of San José. He broke into the first team at an early age, making his senior debut at just 17. Across all competitions, he went on to make 68 appearances for his boyhood club, scoring eight goals and providing five assists.

In 2023, he also “lifted” the CONCACAF Central American Cup with Alajuelense, despite featuring in only one group-stage match before departing for Europe in August. His performances attracted the attention of Belgian side KVC Westerlo, who signed the then 19-year-old winger.

His Belgian adventure did not get off to the easiest start. After making his debut against Anderlecht, a knee injury kept him sidelined for an extended period. Alcócer returned to action in April, when he also scored his first goal for the club against Mechelen.

Over the last two seasons, Josimar has been given the opportunity to fully showcase his potential. His most productive campaign came last season, when the lightning-quick winger recorded three goals and five assists.

Just as he did at club level, Alcócer quickly established himself on the international stage. He made his senior debut for Costa Rica at the age of 18 and has since represented his country at two CONCACAF Gold Cups and one Copa América. During the most recent international break, he featured in friendly matches against England and Colombia.