Newcastle Jets Bring Back a Beloved Figure After a Decade Apart: ‘Exciting Times Ahead’

The Newcastle Jets have secured the services of former Sydney FC forward Max Burgess on a two-year contract as they prepare for the Isuzu UTE A-League 2025-26 season.

Burgess makes the move to the Jets following a successful four-year stint with the Sky Blues, where he recorded 97 appearances in the A-League.

The 30-year-old midfielder returns to McDonald Jones Stadium, having previously played in five matches for Newcastle back in 2015.

“I’ve had some excellent discussions with coach Mark Milligan about the style of football he aims to implement here, and it’s something that genuinely excites me,” said Burgess.

“I truly believe that my best football is yet to come, and I’m keen to improve further. I have a solid feeling about what we can accomplish at the Jets.”

“The passion of the fans here is remarkable, and I sense that something special is on the horizon, which has really attracted me to the club.”

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A product of the Sky Blues’ academy, Burgess was part of the squad that clinched the 2023 Australia Cup with Sydney FC.

However, he struggled for playing time during the 2024-25 season, featuring in just three league matches before his contract ended.

Mark Milligan, who replaced Rob Stanton as head coach, has made Burgess his second signing of the off-season, joining Alex Badolato in the squad.

Additionally, Kota Mizunuma and Daniel Wilmering have extended their contracts, while several players including Dane Ingham, Ryan Scott, Matt Scarcella, Justin Vidic, Wellissol, Callum Timmins, Jacob Dowse, Charles M’Mombwa, Zac Bowling and Phillip Cancar have departed Newcastle.

“From our first meeting, it was evident that Max would be an outstanding addition to the Jets,” stated Milligan.

“Max brings a wealth of experience from his years in the industry and possesses the personal values that will be instrumental in our growth as a club.

“I am eager to see Max on the pitch, and I believe he is a fantastic signing for our club.”