Western Sydney Wanderers FC are proud to announce that rising star Awan Lual has signed a three-year scholarship deal with the club, cementing his place as one of Western Sydney’s most exciting young talents.
The 19-year-old forward has impressed from the moment he joined the Wanderers Academy at the start of 2023, having honed his skills across a range of local Western Sydney clubs, including Blacktown Spartans.
His debut season in Red & Black was nothing short of remarkable, as he scored 20 goals in 38 games across the U18s and U20s sides.
Thrust into senior football in 2025, Lual has quickly adapted to the demands of first-grade football. This season, he has become a regular feature for the Isuzu UTE A-League team, making nine appearances and scoring his first goal at the highest level.
Off the field, Lual’s journey has been equally inspiring. Moving from South Sudan to Australia with his family at a young age in search of a better life, he faced the challenges of a new culture, lifestyle and language.
Football became the bridge that helped him embrace his new home, providing confidence and a sense of belonging during a critical period of his development.
Head coach Gary van Egmond spoke highly of Awan.
“Awan has showed incredible maturity and determination for someone so young. To come from such a challenging background and establish as a first-team player so quickly is a testament to his talent and work ethic. He’s a special player for this club and for Western Sydney,” said van Egmond.
“His journey is inspiring not just for our younger players, but for the whole community. Awan’s dedication on and off the field embodies everything we stand for at the Wanderers.”
Awan Lual said the scholarship contract is an honour.
“It’s really nice to be able to represent the area. (I’m) privileged. Not many people get to represent the West,” said Lual.
“The West is very cultural, a lot of different backgrounds, a lot of different people, and a lot of different ways to make a living. So to be able to play for the Western Sydney Wanderers na work hard, try to do my best, is the epitome of what the West is.
“It’s an honour, it’s not something where you are just given it, it’s a privilege to represent the club and you gotta do well.”
