Perth Glory have made a remarkable signing, bringing in two-time Isuzu UTE A-League Champion Brian Kaltak from Central Coast Mariners on a multi-year agreement.
The signing of the 31-year-old Vanuatu international is a surprising twist after three successful years with the Mariners.
Kaltak clinched the Isuzu UTE A-League Championship in his inaugural season with Central Coast in 2022-23, before securing back-to-back titles in 2023-24. He also played a vital role in the team’s Premiership win and their historic AFC Cup triumph, contributing to a trophy treble.
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Recognised in the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA)’s Team of the Season for both 2023 and 2024, Kaltak is regarded as one of the premier central defenders in the Isuzu UTE A-League, just three years into a professional journey that commenced with the Mariners in 2022.
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However, during his third season, speculation surrounding Kaltak’s potential overseas move hinted at a possible end to his time at the Mariners.
Just two months prior, Mariners head coach Mark Jackson disclosed that Kaltak had indicated a desire to explore opportunities in Asia. Yet in a surprising development, the accomplished defender has chosen to continue his adventure in the Isuzu UTE A-League with Perth Glory.
“This marks a new chapter for me and I’m very excited about it,” Kaltak stated upon finalising his transfer to Perth.
“My three years at the Mariners were fantastic, but now it’s time to embrace a new challenge. I believe this move will be beneficial for both me and my football journey.
“When I had a conversation with (Glory football director) Stan Lazaridis, his enthusiasm regarding the club’s ambitions was palpable.
“This club has a rich history of winning titles. Stan’s vision is focused on restoring that success, and I want to be part of this new journey. Fostering a positive environment and building a cohesive team are essential for making a significant impact, and that’s what I envision for this club.”
Kaltak becomes the fifth seasoned Isuzu UTE A-League player to join Glory since the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. Joining him are Phoenix teammates Sam Sutton and Scott Wootton, along with Perth residents Callum Timmins and goalkeeper Mark Birighitti.
The five new additions boast an impressive average of 108 appearances in the Isuzu UTE A-League, reflecting their experience in the competition.
With Kaltak and Wootton, Glory head coach David Zdrilic has secured two of the league’s most seasoned central defenders, aiming to establish a solid foundation for his defence in the 2025-26 season.
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This is a defence that urgently requires bolstering, especially after Zdrilic’s team conceded a staggering 56 goals in 26 matches last season—the highest by any team in the league.
Stan Lazaridis, Glory’s football director, has hailed Kaltak’s signing as a true “coup” for the club.
“It’s hard not to admire the way Brian approaches his game,” Lazaridis remarked.
“He’s a robust and dynamic defender who gives his all every time he steps onto the pitch and is wholly committed to his craft.
“Those attributes, combined with his knowledge of winning in the A-League, will make him an invaluable asset to our squad and an excellent mentor for our younger defenders.”
“Securing Brian’s talents is a significant achievement for the club, and I can’t wait to see the positive impact he will have, both on and off the field, this season and in the future.”
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Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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