Melbourne Victory have announced the highly-anticipated signing of Marco Rojas, who returns to the club for a third stint on a two-and-a-half year deal.
The news of the signing comes along with the announcement of attacking midfielder Kristijan Dobras' departure from the club, who had made nine Hyundai A-League appearances since his arrival ahead of the 2019/20 campaign.
Rojas returns to play in Victory colours for the third time after his first stint between the 2011/12 - 2012/13 Hyundai A-League campaigns, and his second spell at the club in 2016/17.
Rojas won the Johnny Warren Medal in the 2012/13 Hyundai A-League season; a highlight of his 75 previous games in Melbourne which garnered 28 goals.
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Upon returning to the club, the 28-year-old said he's looking forward to playing in front of the Victory fans once more, and is excited about the prospect of working under new Victory boss Carlos Salvachua.
“Melbourne Victory holds a special place in my heart,” Rojas told the club website.
“I’m really looking forward to getting back out there and playing in front of the fans again because they really do create a special atmosphere.
“I think we’ve got a good squad and I’m looking forward to getting on the pitch and connecting with the guys. I want to help contribute to the team performances and help push the team back up the ladder.
“I look forward to working under Carlos - I’ve heard really good things about him. I’m always open to learning new things and I’m sure he’ll be able to teach me a lot.”
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Salvachua, meanwhile, says he's excited to see what Rojas has to offer his squad.
“We are very happy to have Marco join our squad for the second half of the season, and I’m sure a lot of members and fans are excited to see Marco back at the club too,” Salvachua said.
“It was terrific to hear that Marco wanted to return to the Victory family.
"I believe his decision to come back says a lot about the club environment.
“We know Marco is a very talented player. He is a goal scorer, he will strengthen our side and help us play the attacking brand of football our members and fans expect.”
As Rojas makes his return to the club Dobras heads for the exit doors after the club announced the mutually-agreed termination of his contract.
Dobras made nine appearances and scored two goals throughout the first half of the campaign.
Melbourne Victory Football Operations Manager Paul Trimboli thanked Dobras for his contribution to the club.
“After discussion with Kristijan and his management, he has decided to seek further opportunities elsewhere,” Trimboli told the club website.
“On behalf of everyone at the Club, we thank Kristijan for his time at Victory, and we wish him all the best for the next chapter in his career.”
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Friday, 24 January 2020
Kick-off: 7:30pm AEDT
Venue: AAMI Park
Broadcast: FOX Sports 505
Stream: MyFootball Live App, Kayo Sports
