Sydney FC Assistant Coach John Maisano is leaving Sydney FC to become Real Sociedad’s new Assistant Coach in Spain’s La Liga.
Maisano joins one of Spain’s leading football clubs and becomes the first Australian to coach in La Liga, with the Sky Blues proud to support the next step in his career.
Maisano’s move has come about following connections and experience developed during his time at Sydney FC, with the Club happy to allow him to pursue what is considered a major opportunity at this stage of his coaching journey.
His first game for Sociedad is at home to Atletico Madrid on January 5th, followed by Getafe away and then Spanish giants Barcelona at home on January 19th.
Since joining Sydney FC, Maisano has been a valued member of the Club’s coaching staff, working closely alongside Head Coach Ufuk Talay and playing an important role in the Club’s football program over the past 18 months.
Maisano said he was incredibly grateful to Sydney FC for the support shown throughout the process.
“It’s a dream come true and I want to sincerely thank Sydney FC and Ufuk for allowing me the opportunity to take this next step,” Maisano said.
“This Club has become a special family for me and I’ve loved every moment of being part of this group.
“This opportunity honestly came out of the blue and isn’t something I could have foreseen, but it’s a huge chance for me at this stage of my career.
“Sydney FC has given me the skills, experience and belief over the past 18 months to be able to step into a role like this, and I’m incredibly excited about what lies ahead.”
Head Coach Ufuk Talay congratulated Maisano on his move and praised his contribution to the Club.
“John has been a fantastic assistant coach and a pleasure to work with,” he said.
“This is a great opportunity for him and one he fully deserves.
“These are exactly the kinds of opportunities Sydney FC wants to help coaches aspire to and achieve, and we’re proud of the pathway John is now taking.
“On behalf of everyone at the Club, I wish him all the very best.”
Maisano flies out to Spain on Christmas Day night and current Sydney FC second assistant coach Matt Sim will step into the assistant coach role for now.
