Former Adelaide United midfielder Marcelo Carrusca has officially become an Australian citizen, the Argentine confirmed on his Instagram account.
In a move which is sure to spark the interest of a host of Hyundai A-League clubs, Carrusca will no longer take up a visa spot on a club’s roster.
The 33-year-old has parted ways with Adelaide United after failing to agree on a new contract following the arrival of new German boss Marco Kurz.
ADELAIDE CEO ON CARRUSCA
Reds CEO Grant Mayer confirmed over the weekend on Adelaide radio program Soccer on 531 that Carrusca would not return to Coopers Stadium next season.
“An offer was made to Marcelo. Marcelo came back to Australia last weekend, we met with him Tuesday night and he reluctantly said no he can’t accept that offer,” Mayer told Soccer on 531.
“We weren’t in a position to increase it so at this stage Marcelo Carrusca won’t be with the club next year.
“The reality is, what the coach wants is a player that can play 90 minutes for 27 weeks. Now that’s not for any one minute saying anything negative about Chelo. Chelo is an outstanding player.
“But the style of play that our coach has chosen to play demands that a number 10 can get out there and play 90 minutes every week, for 27 rounds.
“It’s a difficult one, Marcelo was obviously disappointed. But as I said to him at the time, I have no doubt he’ll be playing somewhere in the A-League if not overseas.”
MARCELO BECOMES AN AUSSIE