Brazilian defender Marcelo on embracing his new surroundings in Western Sydney and sharing his global experience with the next generation at the Red & Black.
Marcelo touched down in Western Sydney last week and linked up with his new teammates in the Gold Coast at their pre-season camp.
Having spoken to head coach Mark Rudan prior to his signing with the club, Marcelo said he was ready to get out of his comfort zone.
“So when I received the call from Mark (head coach Mark Rudan), I was really happy because it’s a new challenge in my life,” said Marcelo.
“I’m not the type of guy that I want to be in my comfort zone.
“So this is a new challenge, a new country, new culture and I like that.
“I do love to get something new in my life, in my families life and when I spoke to my wife for the first time that I have the possibility to come here, she straight away said yes we go.
“My kids also say yes, we go.
“As a Brazilian, we are very open so we like to get to know new people.”
Marcelo is hoping that he can not only bring his experience but also his strength to the Wanderers squad that is building up for a massive 2022/23 A-Leagues season.
“He told me (head coach Mark Rudan) that he needs a guy that’s really strong inside on the field but also outside off the field,” explained Marcelo.
“I have played for a longtime in Europe but that’s already done. I need to look forward.
“I’m here to give everything that I have learned there for the team and also for the club.
“The main goal here is to bring the Western Sydney Wanderers to a high level, that’s what I’m here for.”
During his time in Western Sydney over the next season, Marcelo is hoping to also give back to some of the next generation of Wanderers coming through the ranks.
“If you learn a lot of things and you don’t pass it onto the next, it makes no sense,” reflected Marcelo.
“It’s part of our life.
“We need to give something else, something for the others.
“I’m here to do my best to help the team and I’m sure that will not be easy. The team will have ups and downs this season, but I hope we can achieve a very high goal at the end of the season.
“That’s the most important.”
