Six seasons in the making, Western Sydney Wanderers midfielder Keanu Baccus is set to play in his 100th A-Leagues match in this Saturday night’s Sydney Derby.
The talented midfielder joined the Wanderers Academy in its inaugural year and made his youth debut for the club in the former Youth League competition against Melbourne Victory.
Working his way up through the ranks of the Academy, Baccus was called into senior football action during the 2016/17 season where he made his debut in a Round 13 clash against Perth Glory at Accor Stadium.
Two seasons on from his debut, Baccus had solidified himself in the heart of the Wanderers midfield where he has played a consistent role for the last four years.
Known proudly by Wanderers members and fans as “The Parklea Messi”, Baccus was awarded the club’s highest accolade The Wanderers Medal for Player of the Year in 2019.
Synonymous with the Wanderers values, beliefs and ethics, Baccus is a product of both the Western Sydney region where he grew up and the Wanderers Academy system.
This Saturday night’s Sydney Derby will mark Baccus’ 100th A-Leagues match, an incredible feat for the 23-year-old who has spent his entire professional career at the Western Sydney Wanderers.
Western Sydney Wanderers Chairman Paul Lederer spoke highly of Baccus’ impact over the last six years at the club.
“We are incredibly proud of Keanu and his journey so far at the club,” said Lederer.
“Keanu was one of the first Academy players to really cement themselves in the Wanderers squad that we see today.
“We thank him for his ongoing passion and support of the club, as well as his efforts both on and off the pitch.”
Western Sydney Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas praised Keanu’s role at the club over the last six seasons.
“Keanu is one of our favourite sons and it has been an honour to watch him grow from a young boy to a man over the last six seasons in our A-Leagues squad,” said Tsatsimas.
“Keanu is a role model to so many in our Western Sydney community and we thank him for his contribution to the club so far.”
Wanderers Academy Technical Director Ian Crook congratulated Baccus on the milestone.
“I still to this day remember Keanu’s first session at the Academy and what a journey it has been,” said Crook.
“With his hard-work, fight and determination, Keanu has helped pave the way for so many players from our Academy system to first team. He is the true definition of a young leader.
“I hope that this is one of many milestones Keanu can reach during his time at the Wanderers and I wish to congratulate on what is a very special moment in his career.”
