The Wellington Phoenix have officially announced the exit of club icon Kosta Barbarouses.
At 35 years of age, Barbarouses was the leading scorer for the Phoenix this season, netting 10 goals in 26 appearances in the A-League. He has opted to decline a contract extension and has informed the club that he will pursue opportunities elsewhere for the 2025-26 season.
During his third spell with the Phoenix, Barbarouses experienced a remarkable revival, tallying up 23 goals in 54 matches and earning a return to the New Zealand national team.
Earlier this month, he made history by becoming the first player to win the Phoenix Men’s Player of the Year award three times, collecting five accolades at the club’s annual awards night.
The four-time A-League champion concluded his time with the club by scoring the decisive goal in Wellington’s Australia Cup playoff against Brisbane Roar in Darwin last week.
“The three years I’ve had with the Phoenix in my hometown have been incredibly meaningful to me,” Barbarouses remarked.
“I am grateful to the supporters, the team, and many of the staff members for everything they have done.”
“Choosing to leave was an exceptionally tough decision, and I wish the Phoenix every success in the future.”
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Shaun Gill, the Phoenix’s director of football, expressed that the club did everything possible to secure Barbarouses’ future at the club.
“Kosta has enjoyed two of the finest seasons of his career with the Phoenix, and we believed he was in the optimal position to gain selection for the All Whites’ World Cup squad,” Gill stated.
“In light of his performances over the previous two seasons, we proposed what we felt was a highly competitive contract offer.”
“It’s disappointing that he has rejected our contract extension, but we respect his choice and thank him for his significant contributions to the club.”
It will be intriguing to see where Barbarouses lands next season, especially as he eyes a place in New Zealand’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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