Sydney FC’s Alessandro Del Piero has confirmed his intention to remain with the Sky Blues for the second year of his contract, insisting he never planned to leave.
Sydney FC-s Alessandro Del Piero has confirmed his intention to remain with the Sky Blues for the second year of his contract, insisting he never planned to leave.
The Italian marquee man will continue to play at Allianz Stadium for the 2013/14 season with the plan to complete Project Sydney.
“First of all I-m here to play,” said the World Cup winner. “This is a challenge I started 6 months ago so I don-t want to leave before.”
The striker was flanked by Sydney FC Chairman Scott Barlow and Chief Executive Officer Tony Pignata as both parties announced their plans to further the relationship on Thursday.
“We think this is the right time for us to make this decision and to trust each other in the future. We want to build a better team and get more victories for our fans,” said Del Piero.
“Me and my family we-ve spent a great time here and we know the people are very good and the weather and the city, everything is very good.
“We have a lot of things to do but if we can work with passion, work hard and with knowledge then anything is possible,” he continued.
The 11 goal forward still has six regular season games to go this year and has seen thousands wear the shirt with his name on it.
“I-m really proud and really happy about that because when the people love you like this it-s very good. We hope to play in the stadium all the time with much crowd.”
Chairman Scott Barlow said he was delighted to bring Del Piero back to Sydney for a second season.
“Since arriving here in Sydney, Alessandro has unquestionably delivered on all fronts,” he said.
“On the pitch his class has been on display for everyone to see week in, week out. Off the pitch the impact Alessandro has had has been huge as well.
“He has raised the profile of Sydney FC and the A-League as a whole here in Australia but also internationally,” he concluded.
Watch Alessandro’s next game at Allianz Stadium and the Socceroos captain Lucas Neill’s home debut for Sydney FC against the current league leaders Central Coast Mariners on Saturday 9th March (kick off 5.30pm) when Sydney will look to make it six wins in a row at home. Tickets are available by clicking here from Ticketek.
