BRAVO! PANTHERS ADD EDU PEREZ
Panthers Wroclaw have strengthened their offense ahead of the 2026 American Football League Europe season with the signing of Spanish wide receiver Edu Pérez, adding a versatile weapon with experience across Spain’s top level and Europe’s major leagues.
The 23-year-old arrives in Wroclaw after spending the past two seasons with erstwhile European League of Football rival Madrid Bravos, where he lined up primarily at wide receiver while also contributing out of the backfield as a running back. With the Bravos withdrawing from competition for 2026, despite having a place in the European Football Alliance, their roster is being broken up by signings across both rival leagues.
Pérez began playing American football at the age of 14 in his hometown of Alicante, first with the Alicante Sharks before moving to Murcia Cobras to make his debut in Spain’s First Division. A subsequent move to Madrid saw him spend three years with Osos Rivas before his professional breakthrough came in 2023 with the Barcelona Dragons. Now set for a new chapter in Poland, Pérez admitted the move is as much about embracing a new environment as it is about football.
“I’ve never been to Poland, but I’ve only heard good things about Wroclaw,” he noted. “Everyone keeps telling me it’s a beautiful city, full of nice people. I can’t wait to get there, walk the streets, and eat at the best restaurants.”
On the field, the Spaniard believes his value lies in his adaptability and willingness to contribute in multiple roles.
“I consider myself a tough guy, and I’m defined by my ‘never give up’ mentality,” he explained. “My greatest strength is that I can play any position on the offense that requires technical skills. I can line up in the slot as a possession receiver, catch short screen passes and break through tackles, but I can also play outside as a deep-passing threat. I also love blocking for my team-mates and playing special teams, especially as a gunner.”
That team-first approach appears central to both Pérez’s mindset and the Panthers’ recruitment strategy. While discussions over his exact deployment are still to come, the receiver made clear that personal statistics are secondary to the bigger picture.
“We haven’t discussed my role specifically yet, but [the head coach] knows I can play wherever he needs me and will do whatever it takes to ensure the team’s success,” he confirmed. “I want to score points, but I’m absolutely committed to doing the ‘invisible work’ so we finish 1-0 every week.”
Just as notable as his on-field flexibility is the reputation Pérez carries for quickly integrating into locker rooms — something he views as fundamental to success.
“I truly believe that interpersonal relationships are the most important thing in life,” he said. “I like to create a work environment where everyone feels comfortable around me and comfortable with others. Laughter and being friendly are the fastest way to connect. Years of playing football don’t last forever so, beyond training and matches, I simply enjoy having fun with my team-mates. I believe I can transfer this attitude to the coaches and the entire organisation, becoming a key part of the team’s chemistry.”
With AFLE’s inaugural season approaching, Pérez is not shying away from ambitious targets.
“My expectations for this season are very high. Above all, I believe the team we’re building can reach and win the final. Besides winning the championship, I’d like to develop as a player and feel that I’m better this season than last — eliminating mistakes and honing my skills.”