Marco Rojas has called time on his third Melbourne Victory stint, departing the club in favour of a new opportunity at an overseas club.
The New Zealand international has made 127 appearances for Victory, including 49 accrued throughout his latest spell between 2019 and 2022.
After announcing Rojas’s imminent departure, the club took to social media to release a heartfelt message delivered by Rojas to the Victory faithful, to thank them for their support throughout his time at the club.
“Thank you for your incredible support over my past couple of stints, I’ve had an amazing time here being a football player and a part of this club,” Rojas said.
“You guys create an atmosphere that’s unrivalled in our league, it’s one of the most joyous and homely feelings to play here in front of you guys at home.
“I’m going to miss those evenings, but I’ve taken up an opportunity I couldn’t say no to.
I didn’t want to leave without saying thank you. I really appreciate it, I’m very grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here and the support I’ve received during my couple of stints here at the club.
“Like I said, you guys are incredible and I hope you are spoiled by another awesome season from the boys.”
Victory director of football John Didulica expressed thanks of his own to Rojas for his contribution to the club.
“Marco played a significant role in the team during all three periods he’s been with the club and his contribution will continue to be a part of Melbourne Victory’s history,” Didulica said.
Rojas joins Robbie Kruse, Jason Davidson, Brendan Hamill, Francesco Margiotta and Ivan Kelava in leaving the club ahead of Tony Popovic’s second season at the helm.
The six departures are matched by Popovic’s six signings to date: George Timotheou, Noah Smith, Tomi Juric, Eli Adams, Ahmad Taleb and Paul Izzo.
