Ten years ago, Aaron Mooy’s talent wasn’t questioned. However, the physique of Manchester City’s latest acquisition was a concern for some.
On Thursday it was announced that Mooy’s club Melbourne City had transferred the Caltex Socceroo to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.
Transfer news: A-League star signs for EPL giants
Mooy’s prolific Melbourne City career
The move, while not entirely surprising given the link between the clubs and Mooy’s prodigious form at club and Caltex Socceroo level – was welcomed by many.
One of those excited to hear the news was a former Westfields Sports High teammate.
Marko Jesic, now 26, attended Sydney’s renowned sports high school a decade ago.
At the same time, a small, skinny lad called Aaron Mooy was catching the eye at the school with his prodigious technique.
Back in 2006, Jesic played as a striker and Mooy was the school’s holding midfielder.
Jesic, currently with FFA Cup Round of 32 side Marconi, recalled Mooy as a unique talent who was lacking in one area.
“When I was younger for me he was one of the best players I’d seen at that age,” Jesic told www.a-league.com.au.
“He is one year younger than I am so obviously he was training with the older group.
“He was small. And skinny. At the time, you’d look at him and think, ‘technically he’s the best and work ethic unbelievable’.
“As a deeper lying player he was creative, and could switch the play easily.
“But everyone always felt he was small and would get pushed off the ball, and that was the one thing that some felt might hold him back… he would get shoved off the ball way too easily early on.
“Then all of a sudden he went to England to Bolton Wanderers and all of a sudden grew into a Hulk lookalike! And he also grew in height.
“Now you’d need a few players to get him off the ball.
“He’s a big boy now but back then, he was skinny no doubt about that. But technically, was and is one of the best players I’ve seen.
“Bulking up was the only thing missing in his game.”
