Adrian Segecic has exited Sydney FC to join the English EFL Championship club Portsmouth.
The joint Golden Boot winner for the Isuzu UTE A-League 2024-25 has exchanged the Sky Blues for Portsmouth on a three-year contract, following the end of his tenure with Sydney FC.
Although the 21-year-old is a free agent, Sydney FC will still receive a significant six-figure sum in training compensation for the talented Australian forward. Segecic netted an impressive 13 goals in the league and 18 across all competitions.
He becomes part of the A-Leagues wave at Fratton Park, joining fellow Australian league players Hayden Matthews (Sydney FC), Jacob Farrell (Central Coast Mariners), and Thomas Waddingham (Brisbane Roar), who have all made the move in the past year.
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“I’m truly heartbroken to be leaving Sydney FC—this club has been my home for nearly a decade,” Segecic expressed, reflecting on his nine years at the club where he came up through the academy ranks.
“However, I realise it’s time to challenge myself and see how far I can push my career. I’m thrilled for what lies ahead in England, but I’ll forever be thankful to Sydney FC for the fantastic opportunities provided to me.
“A huge thank you to all my coaches, the staff, my teammates, and of course, the amazing members and fans who have supported me along the way.”
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Sydney FC put forward several “strong offers to retain his services,” but the talented forward was keen on pursuing an opportunity overseas.
“Adrian was outstanding last season. His motivation to develop and commitment to perform every week were truly remarkable,” remarked Sky Blues head coach Ufuk Talay.
“He absolutely deserves this chance. While we would have loved to keep him at Sydney FC, he’s eager to test himself in one of the toughest leagues in world football, and we’re proud that our pathway has allowed him to do that.
“Everyone at the club wishes Adrian the very best as he embarks on this new chapter. He’s a homegrown talent who has done remarkably well, and we hope to see him return to Sky Blue one day.”
Segecic made 65 appearances for Sydney FC across all competitions, scoring a total of 24 goals.
He also earned multiple end-of-season accolades from Sydney FC, including Player of the Year, Members’ Player of the Year, and the Golden Boot.
“Adrian is an incredibly exciting young player—one of Australia’s top prospects at the moment,” stated Portsmouth manager John Mousinho.
“He was the leading scorer in the A-League last season and amassed numerous individual accolades, gaining recognition beyond our shores as well.
“We’ve previously found success in recruiting talents from that region, and we’re optimistic Adrian can make a significant impact at Pompey.”
“He’s a forward-minded attacker comfortable playing as a winger or in the number 10 role. His creativity and vibrant playing style are exactly what we need, so we’re excited to have him on board.”
SEASON REPORT CARDS
PART ONE: Rating your Isuzu UTE A-League side’s season
PART TWO: Evaluating your Isuzu UTE A-League side’s season
PART THREE: Rating your Isuzu UTE A-League side’s season
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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