Wanderers Enhance Attack with Acquisition of Mariners Star Kuol

Western Sydney Wanderers have secured the services of striker Alou Kuol ahead of the 2025-26 Isuzu UTE A-League season.

The 23-year-old forward arrives at the Wanderers following his departure from Central Coast Mariners, where he made more than 100 appearances in two separate tenures.

Kuol played a pivotal role in scoring the decisive goal during the AFC Cup final, leading his team to a 1-0 victory over Oman’s Al Ahed. His contribution was vital in the Mariners’ impressive treble win during the 2023-24 season, as they also clinched the Isuzu UTE A-League Premiership and Championship titles.

“Staj (head coach Alen Stajcic) and Naz (assistant coach Nahuel Arrarte) reached out to me – I’ve had the pleasure of working with them previously, and their vision for next season is truly thrilling,” Kuol remarked.

“When I first arrived in Australia, I lived in St Marys, and the Wanderers have always been a club I’ve dreamt of playing for.

“Having the chance to represent the West is incredibly exciting for me, and I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and playing in front of the RBB.”

“My goal is to score plenty, work hard for the team and our supporters, and become a champion in the A-Leagues with the Wanderers.”

Now set to reunite with head coach Alen Stajcic, who managed him during the 2020-21 season at the Mariners, Kuol expressed his eagerness to don the Red and Black colours.

“Alou’s a fantastic addition to what we are building here,” stated Stajcic following the announcement of the ex-Mariners striker’s signing.

“He’s diligent, driven to improve, and brings genuine quality to our attacking play. We’re convinced this is the perfect environment for him to reach his full potential.”

Kuol is expected to play a crucial role in a revamped attacking force at CommBank Stadium this coming season, especially after a series of high-profile exits during the off-season, including Johnny Warren Medallist Nicolas Milanovic’s transfer to Scottish Premiership side Aberdeen, and striker Zac Sapsford also heading to Scotland with a move to Dundee United.

Swedish forward Marcus Antonsson has also departed the Wanderers after two seasons in Western Sydney, prompting Stajcic to actively search for new attacking talent.

Having already secured Isuzu UTE A-Leagues veteran Kosta Barbarouses on a one-year contract following his exit from Wellington Phoenix, Kuol marks the second attacking acquisition of the off-season. Young talent Marcus Younis is also rejoining the squad after spending time on loan at PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands.

In addition, Stajcic has been proactive in strengthening other areas of the squad, bringing in Newcastle Jets defender Phillip Cancar and Championship-winning midfielder Steven Ugarkovic from Melbourne City on a two-year deal.