Sydney FC winger Joe Lolley says the squad is eager to kick off the Isuzu UTE A-League season after a long and intense pre-season.
The Sky Blues travel to Coopers Stadium to face Adelaide United on Friday night, with Lolley confident his side is ready to put months of preparation into action.
“Yeah, it’s definitely been a long pre-season, so I’m excited for the competitive games to start and hopefully we get up and running with a win,” Lolley said.
He added that Adelaide away is always a thrilling challenge to begin the campaign.
“It’s a team we haven’t faced in pre-season, but we’ve done some analysis work and know what to expect. It’s usually an exciting game with a lot of goals and a great atmosphere – a perfect first fixture.”
“Fully Committed” To Sydney FC
After some speculation earlier in the year about his future, Lolley was quick to reaffirm his commitment to the Sky Blues.
“I’m fully committed here. I love being here and we’ve got a great group of lads. I enjoy every moment I come into the building, so I’m very happy and excited for the season.”
The Englishman said the strong team culture and camaraderie in the squad have played a big part in his happiness and motivation heading into the new campaign.
Fresh Energy And Togetherness
Reflecting on last season, Lolley said the team had learned from their challenges and now felt reinvigorated after a productive off-season.
“It’s difficult to say exactly why things didn’t click last year – there could have been a lot of factors. But I don’t want to look back too much. We’ve improved the squad this year and there’s a fresh attitude. Everyone’s together and on the same page, and that’s going to be a big positive for us.”
He believes that unity will be key to Sydney FC’s success in 2025/26.
New Faces Impressing
Lolley was full of praise for the club’s off-season recruits, saying they’ve lifted the overall standard and depth within the group.
“We’ve added a lot of quality throughout the squad – young players and experienced ones,” he said.
“Paulo’s been excellent in midfield, Piero has a lot of quality on the ball and will excite fans, and Victor up front looks like he’ll score plenty of goals. There’s talent across the pitch and I think fans will be happy with what they see.”
Loving Life In Sydney
Lolley reflected on how his move to Australia unfolded unexpectedly but said it’s turned into one of the best decisions of his career.
“Even a month before I signed, I probably never thought this was a destination I’d end up in,” he smiled.
“But to still be here four years later, loving my life, is something I couldn’t have predicted. Life throws you in different directions, and I’m very happy to be here.”
Positive Vibes In The Squad
Looking back on the off-season, Lolley admitted that last year’s frustrations are now firmly behind the team.
“Things are never clear in football, and last season was frustrating for everyone – players and staff. But I’m excited by this season. The chemistry within the group is really strong, and there’s a great atmosphere around the place.”
He also praised the character and attitude of Sydney’s new arrivals.
“The players we’ve brought in are good characters and have added a lot of personality as well as ability. It feels like a tight-knit dressing room now, and when players feel that comfort and happiness, it makes a huge difference.”
Back In His Preferred Role
With Douglas Costa no longer at the club, Lolley expects to feature more regularly in his favoured position on the right wing this season.
“At times last year it was frustrating because I like to play predominantly as a right winger, and maybe I didn’t get to do that as much as I’d have liked,” he said.
“It probably suits me personally a little bit more this year, but it doesn’t change how I approach things. I just want to lead from the front and help the boys on and off the pitch.”
Confident And Relaxed
Despite being one of the team’s senior figures, Lolley says he doesn’t feel any extra pressure this season.
“I don’t feel any more pressure. We’ve added a lot of quality and there’s competition everywhere on the pitch. I just want to stay fit and believe in myself to perform and produce what I know I can.”
On Fellow Brits Joining The A-League
Asked about fellow English players Tom Lawrence and Chris Long arriving in the league, Lolley backed them to make an impact.
“I don’t know Chris too well, but I played against Tom a lot when he was at Derby and I was at Forest. He was a top Championship player and a great signing for the league. If he stays fit and focused, he’ll do really well.”
Looking Ahead
As Sydney FC prepare for their season opener, Lolley says the mood in the squad is one of confidence and determination.
“We’ve worked hard, the group’s in a great place, and everyone’s ready to go. Hopefully we can start the season the right way.”
Match Details
Adelaide United v Sydney FC
Isuzu UTE A-League Round One
Friday 17th October 2025
Coopers Stadium, Adelaide, SA
Kick Off: 7:00pm AEST
Broadcast Live: Paramount+
Tickets: Click Here
