Western Sydney Wanderers FC are very proud to confirm the re-signing of captain Marcelo until the end of the Isuzu UTE A-Leagues 2023/24 season.
Synonymous with the Wanderers identity, Marcelo has been a stalwart in Western Sydney’s defence and has led the on-field transformation of head coach Marko Rudan’s side this season.
Having been named the club’s captain at the Red & Black Bloc’s 10-year Anniversary event, Marcelo has featured in almost every match this season and has led the club to record the best defensive record in the league.
A revelation for the Wanderers, Marcelo arrived in Western Sydney in September after spending majority of his career at powerhouse clubs Wisla Krakow, PSV Eindhoven, Hannover 96, Besiktas, Lyon, and Bordeaux.
The passionate central defender has set the benchmark this season for what it means to represent the West with Marcelo set to continue his journey with the Red & Black for one more year.
Western Sydney Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson was delighted to keep Marcelo in Western Sydney for one more year.
“Since arriving, Marcelo has been an integral part of our club and we would like to thank him for his immense contribution so far,” said Hudson.
“A natural leader, we are very proud to have Marcelo leading the squad for another season.”
Head coach Marko Rudan said he was very proud to have Marcelo for another season.
“Marcelo has well and truly embedded himself into what it means to represent not only the club, but the Western Sydney region,” said Rudan.
“He has shown us time and time again, his passion, his love and most importantly his belief in the project we are building here at the Wanderers.
“We are very lucky to not only have a player of his calibre at the club, but also person, with Marcelo committing to help grow the club both on and off the field until the end of 2023/24.
“We understand that moving your whole life across the world is a huge sacrifice and risk, so I would also like to personally thank his family for committing to this journey and supporting him.”
Marcelo said he was very happy to re-sign with the club and leave his legacy here.
“I feel really happy because it’s a new opportunity to continue to do my best and try to help the club go to the highest standards,” said Marcelo.
“It’s been six months here and I am really happy. My family is happy, and I am happy with the staff and the players. We have been working really hard to achieve something this season so I am grateful I can continue to help next season.
“As soon as you come here, you realise that this country is amazing and you have all the resources to have a good life here. In terms of football, the club gives you all that they have to make us perform well.
“The most important for the players is that we have a place that we can give 100% and we have this here at the Wanderers. So that’s why I’m happy and I’m really surprised with what has happened in my life right now.
“It’s also important to leave a legacy in football and that is what I want to do at the Western Sydney Wanderers and in my life.
“I want to thank God first for this opportunity because without him, we are nothing. I want to say thank you to Mr Rudan (head coach Marko Rudan) to give me the opportunity to be here for one more year. I am more than happy to help the development of the club and bring the club to the highest level. I hope we can be all together one day.”
The Western Sydney Wanderers will fight for second-place on the ladder this Friday night when Adelaide United visit CommBank Stadium. Tickets start from $15 at Ticketek.
