Rising Australian-Croatian superstar Noah Botić has secured a move to the Austrian Bundesliga amid increasing uncertainty for his former A-League club, Western United.
Capitalising on a wondrous 2024–25 season, in which he scored 16 goals in 29 games, Botić has signed a career-defining deal. This three-year deal is with Austria Vienna.
Western’s financial situation casts a shadow
The 23-year-old was out of contract with Western and widely tipped to depart at season’s end. He still leaves amid a backdrop of turmoil at the 2024–25 A-League semi-finalists.
A long-awaited injection of capital via the sale of a controlling stake in Western Melbourne Group (WMG) to US investment firm KAM Sports is now mired in doubt. Fevered speculation continues to grip the football industry about the club’s financial state.
$100m investment in serious doubt
The deal with KAM Sports, spruiked in May as a $100 million investment, is now no certainty to proceed. It was revealed last week that the official agreement between WMG and KAM has yet to be signed.
There is also speculation that even if an agreement is reached, Football Australia and/or the APL may not approve KAM. This is under its Fit and Proper Person Test.
More headaches for embattled chairman
Western chairman Jason Sourasis remains under scrutiny amid controversy over unpaid bills and taxes across several of his businesses. The club faces a winding-up notice from the ATO, a FIFA transfer ban, and pressure from the PFA over late payments. This raises the risk of contract terminations.
Botić leaves legacy, eyes European glory
Austria Vienna finished third in the Austrian Bundesliga in 2024–25. They will enter the second round of the UEFA Conference League this coming season.
Botić departs as United’s all-time leading goal scorer, having netted 27 goals in 72 appearances. In a heartfelt statement released via the club, Botić expressed gratitude for his time at Ironbark Fields.
“After spending the past four years at this amazing club, it is hard to say goodbye. The amount of love and kindness I have received has been through the roof, and I will miss everyone,” Botić said.
“The club has meant the world to me as it was the first, and still only, professional club that I’ve played for.
“I want to thank everyone, from the background staff to the team staff and players. They’ve all had a big impact on my time at the club and I’m truly grateful for that.
“But I especially want to thank the boss for giving me the opportunity to make my debut and help properly kick start my career.”
See related story: A League hat-trick hero Botić
