A-League

Western United Announces 20-Man Squad for 2024/25 A-League Opener Against Wellington Phoenix

Published

1 month ago

10/17/2024

As the 2024/25 Isuzu UTE A-League Men season kicks off, Western United coach John Aloisi has revealed his first extended squad, set to face Wellington Phoenix this Sunday. The 20-man lineup includes a blend of fresh talent, seasoned veterans, and exciting academy graduates.

Among the new faces are striker Hiroshi Ibusuki and defender Tate Russell, both eager to make their league debuts for the Green and Black. United’s supporters will also witness a leadership change, as Ben Garuccio takes charge as captain, with vice-captain and club legend Tomoki Imai supporting him.

Youth on the Rise

Western United’s commitment to developing young talent is on full display, with nine players coming directly from the club’s academy. The spotlight is on Matthew Grimaldi, who impressed last season and looks to continue his ascent, alongside 17-year-old Dylan Leonard. If Leonard makes his debut, he will become United’s youngest-ever player at just 17 years and 159 days old.

Injury and Return Updates

In positive news for United fans, striker Noah Botic, sidelined since March, has returned to full fitness and is included in the squad. Meanwhile, both Angus Thurgate and Rhys Bozinovski have recovered from minor injuries picked up during pre-season, putting them in contention for selection.

However, the club will be without Ramy Najjarine and Khoder Kaddour, who are long-term absentees due to injury, while Besian Kutleshi is unavailable as he serves international duty.

Full Western United Squad for Season Opener:

Tom HEWARD-BELLE (gk), 4. James DONACHIE, 5. Oliver LAVALE, 6. Tomoki IMAI, 9. Hiroshi IBUSUKI, 10. Matthew GRIMALDI, 13. Tate RUSSELL, 14. Jake NAJDOVSKI, 17. Ben GARUCCIO, 19. Noah BOTIC, 20. Abel WALATEE, 21. Sebastian PASQUALI, 23. Rhys BOZINOVSKI, 29. Charbel SHAMOON, 30. Dylan LEONARD, 32. Angus THURGATE, 33. Matthew SUTTON (gk), 34. James YORK, 37. Luke VICKERY, 77. Riku DANZAKI.

Unavailable: 7. Ramy NAJJARINE (injured), 41. Besian KUTLESHI (international duty), 43. Khoder KADDOUR (injured).

Tags:

Western United, A-League 2024/25, John Aloisi, Hiroshi Ibusuki, Tate Russell, Ben Garuccio, Tomoki Imai, Matthew Grimaldi, Dylan Leonard, Wellington Phoenix, A-League opener