Sydney FC defender Ryan McGowan has agreed terms with an overseas club after two successful seasons with the Sky Blues, which have seen the 31-year old regain his spot in the Socceroos World Cup squad.
McGowan secured a Premiership and Championship double in his first season and helped the squad to a third consecutive A-League Grand Final this year.
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The centre-half heads for a lucrative contract in the Middle East and has nothing but praise for his Sky Blue experience.
“Coming back to Australia and playing and winning trophies for Sydney FC has been everything I hoped it would be,” he said.
“My aim was to win things and to get back in the Socceroos squad and I have achieved both.
“I can’t thank the club, our players and staff and most importantly our Members enough for this opportunity and I’d love to come back one day.”
Head Coach Steve Corica admitted the club tried to keep the defender.
“Ryan has done extremely well for us and we wanted him to stay,” he explained.
“But he has an offer which will set his family up, so we understand his decision.
“We will miss him but we wish Ryan and his family all the very best with the move.”
McGowan made 53 appearances in Sky Blue, scoring the one goal for the club on his A-League debut against Adelaide United in round one of season 2019/20.
