The A-League offseason is gaining momentum, with several Australian Croatian footballers at the centre of major transfer developments. These developments are happening both in Australia and abroad. These Australian Croatian footballers are making waves with their moves to international clubs.
The A League’s joint Golden Boot winner Adrian Segečić (pictured) has joined English Championship side Portsmouth. He signed a three-year contract. This showcases the burgeoning talent among Australian Croatian footballers.
According to Sydney FC’s official website, the 21-year-old departs after nine years of development through Sydney FC’s Academy system. He capped off a remarkable journey. This journey saw him graduate to the A-League Men’s team, earn junior national team honors, and now achieve a dream move to Europe.
“A proud product of Sydney FC’s pathway, Segečić spent time on loan at Dutch club FC Dordrecht last season. He then returned to light up the 2024-25 Isuzu UTE A-League,” stated the report on the Sky Blues’ website.
The young Aussie Croat has long been viewed as one of the country’s most technically gifted young players. After topping the goalscoring charts alongside Adelaide United’s Archie Goodwin, with 13 goals this season, now is the time for Segečić to make his mark overseas.
Segečić: “Tough decision to leave”
Segečić admitted it was a tough decision to leave but said the time was right to take the next step in his career.
“I’m honestly devastated to be leaving Sydney FC – this club has been my home for almost a decade,” Segečić told Sydney FC’s official website.
“But I know I have to test myself and find out how far I can take my career. I’m so excited for what’s ahead of me in England. However, I’ll always be grateful to Sydney FC for the incredible opportunities they’ve given me,” he added.
Segečić’s fellow Sydneysider, Nicholas Milanović has already joined Aberdeen FC in the Scottish Premiership. This follows his breakout season with Western Sydney Wanderers.
The 22-year-old winger’s pace and direct attacking style made him a standout performer in the 2024 A-League season. He scored 12 goals and finished equal third on the goalscorers’ chart. His move abroad also signals the next step in the Aussie Croat’s career.
Yet another Australian Croatian footballer in the A League, Western United striker Noah Botić, could also soon join the European exodus.
The 22-year-old forward, who also scored 12 goals in the last A League campaign, finished in equal third spot on the goalscorers’ chart alongside Milanović. He is believed to be attracting considerable interest from several clubs across Europe.
Botić’s contract with Western United officially ends on June 30, at which point he will be able to sign with any club he chooses as a free agent.
Jelačić heading in opposite direction
Heading in the opposite direction, Keegan Jelačić has completed a move to Melbourne Victory following a loan spell at Brisbane Roar. He joins the group of renowned Australian Croatian footballers and adds to the league’s diversity.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, who has featured for the Australian U23 national team, was signed from Belgian club KAA Gent. He will bring creativity and attacking flair to a Victory side that went all the way to the Grand Final this year under first year coach Arthur Diles.
“Joining one of the biggest clubs in the league is always an exciting prospect,” Jelačić told online portal aleagues.com.au.
“I’m looking forward to experiencing the passion of the club and doing my part on the pitch. I’m eager to bring success to Melbourne Victory and its members and fans,” he added.
Jelačić is considered one of the top young midfielders in the country. He will be aiming to make an immediate impact in Melbourne.
Meanwhile, in terms of intra-league movement, Western Sydney Wanderers last week confirmed the signing of Steven Ugarković from champions Melbourne City on a two-season deal.
A key figure in Melbourne City’s 2024/25 title winning campaign, Ugarković (pictured below) returns to his hometown club for his second stint. He has over 200 accumulated A-Leagues appearances at Newcastle Jets, Wellington Phoenix, Melbourne City and the Wanderers. His return adds to the pool of seasoned Australian Croatian footballers in the league.
