Abel Walatee’s Touching Post-Match Interview: ‘I Consider This Place My Second Home’

Every now and then, a player emerges who wins over the hearts of supporters. Abel Walatee of Western United is that player.

Walatee continues to make a mark in the 2024-25 season following his first professional contract, playing a pivotal role in Western’s 3-0 victory against second-placed Adelaide United at Ironbark Fields on Sunday.

The 21-year-old seems to relish every moment on the pitch. Born in Ghana, Walatee transitioned to Liberia at just six months old to live with his grandmother, while both his parents were abroad. It wasn’t until he turned eight that he made the journey to Australia.

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At Western, he has truly found his “second home.”

“I’ve started numerous matches recently, and my confidence is continuing to grow,” he shared with Paramount+ after the Green and Black moved into third place on the table.

“I’m giving everything for the team and putting in the effort. With friends and family coming to support me, I’m playing for them as well. It’s been a great experience. I strive to enjoy every moment.”

After time spent with the Melbourne City youth team, Walatee joined Western’s original academy squad and thrived in the club’s youth setup.

Then in 2023, an opportunity arose for him to play internationally. Prior to making his Isuzu UTE A-League debut and netting his first goal, Walatee signed a four-year deal with Danish professional side Akademisk Boldklub Gladsaxe. However, the move didn’t pan out as expected.

Now, both John Aloisi and Western United are reaping the rewards following his return.

“Everyone here welcomes me warmly; waking up and coming in every day feels like home. This place is my second home,” Walatee expressed.

“I know everyone here, and they genuinely care for me. I look forward to coming in for training every morning.”

“This is a team I would love to return to and finish my career with if I were to go abroad.”

“The coaching here is exceptional. I truly value it, and the support is always there for me.”

“My teammates have my back, including the coach. Playing in front of these fans means a lot to me.”

Following the match, Western’s head coach Aloisi spoke to the media: “Abel is one of those players who can trouble any opponent. Last week, we felt he didn’t perform his best.

“However, in this week’s training, it was clear that ‘Abel seems ready to shine’. It’s all about him achieving consistency; if he can do that, he will be a nightmare for any team we face.

“Not only will he create issues, but he will also generate scoring opportunities for us. I was particularly impressed with his defensive effort today; it’s the best I’ve seen from him in that regard.”