In the 2003 season, Bahia continued to be in the first team by new manager Oswaldo de Oliveira. On 30 March 2003, he scored his first goal of the season, in a 1–1 draw against Coritiba. Bahia then spent the rest of the year, establishing himself in the centre–back position for the side. At the end of the 2003 season, he went on to make 35 appearances and scoring once in all competitions. By November, the club began negotiating with Bahia over a new contract.