Sydney FC defender Aaron Gurd has committed his future to the Sky Blues by extending his contract for a further year until the end of June 2027.
As part of the new deal, the 23-year-old will spend the 2025/26 season on loan at newly promoted Thai League 1 side Kanchanaburi Power FC, who will have an option to make the move permanent when their domestic campaign concludes.
Power have been making big headlines in the Thai league with some strong transfers, including the acquisition of former England international Andros Townsend.
Gurd, who has a Thai passport and the option of playing for the Thai national team, will be considered a home-grown player for the club.
The Sydney FC Academy graduate has endured a challenging few months on the sidelines with foot and collarbone injuries but has now returned to full fitness and is relishing the opportunity to test himself in a new environment.
“I’m really excited to take on this challenge with Kanchanaburi Power,” Gurd said.
“After a tough spell with injuries, I feel fit, fresh and ready to get back on the pitch.
“Playing in Thailand will give me a completely different experience and I believe it will help me grow as a player — both on and off the field.
“It’s a big step, but one that I think will only make me stronger.”
Gurd will also have the opportunity to play in front of his relatives through his mother’s side.
“My mum’s family are from Bangkok and Korat and they live over there, so I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to play in front of my grandpa and grandma, as well as my aunties and extended family.”
Sydney FC Head Coach Ufuk Talay welcomed the move as an opportunity for Gurd to gain valuable playing time.
“It’s a good chance for Aaron to get on the field regularly and continue his development in a competitive league,” Talay said.
“We wish him the very best during his time in Thailand and look forward to seeing him back in Sky Blue stronger for the experience.”
Gurd joined Sydney FC’s A-League squad in 2022 having begun in the Sky Blues Academy in its inaugural year of 2016.
He has played 28 times for club, scoring one goal and winning the Australia Cup in 2023.
Meanwhile midfielder Matthew Scarcella has made a permanent switch to Norway second division club Hodd.
Fellow Sky Blues Academy graduate defender Kyle Shaw has secured a permanent move to Ireland while Alen Harbas has signed for Cypriot club Chalkanoras.
Sydney FC would like to wish each player the best in their careers moving forward.
The moves will be announced by their respective clubs in due course.
