Why joining Adelaide United was a ‘no-brainer’ for Ben Folami: ‘That’s the hope’

Adelaide United recruit Ben Folami believes his new club is a “great place” for the Socceroo to “make a name for myself again” after his arrival from Melbourne Victory.

Folami became just the 11th Isuzu UTE A-League player to join Adelaide from Victory and the first since Nick Ansell in 2021 having signed a four-year deal at Coopers Stadium.

The one-time Australia international arrives after three years at Victory, where he won the 2021 Australia Cup and played a key role in the club’s run to last season’s Isuzu UTE A-League Grand Final.

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Folami revealed Adelaide approached him “weeks ago” as he fronted the media on Wednesday.

“I know the history. It’s a big club in Australia. I know all about Adelaide United,” Folami – who is sidelined for Saturday’s Australia Cup semi-final against Victory as he overcomes injury – told reporters.

“There’s a good vibe in the change room. I can tell it’s a good group of lads. Carl (Veart) is an experienced manager, he’s been here for a long time now and I think he’s somebody I can thrive under.”

“It was a no-brainer for me,” he added.

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Folami scored nine goals in 99 A-Leagues appearances for Victory following his switch from English side Ipswich Town in 2020-21.

Last season, Folami scored two goals in 30 Isuzu UTE A-League matches, with 12 of those starts.

It was Folami’s fewest starts in the competition since 2020-21 (13).

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“I just thought it was the right time for me and my career,” Folami said when asked why he left Victory.

“There (are) things that pop up in your career where you might not play somewhere and things like that.

“I thought Adelaide United would be a great place for me to hopefully come and make a name for myself again.”

Asked if his move to Adelaide was centred on more game time and opportunities, Folami said: “Potentially. That’s the hope. Adelaide are obviously a big club with a big history.

“When a team like Adelaide come knocking, you’re going to listen and entertain it.”

“They’re a club that likes to give players a chance, especially attacking players,” Folami continued.

“They believe in giving them game time and freedom on the pitch to do what they think is best in that moment.

“It will be a good place for me to thrive and grow my career.”