Wellington Phoenix added a late addition to their squad on Deadline Day, signing midfielder Ramy Najjarine ahead of the upcoming Isuzu UTE A-League campaign.
Najjarine, 25, has played more than 100 matches in the A-League and represented Australia at age-group level before making his senior bow for Lebanon last month.
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Phoenix head coach Giancarlo Italiano has been an admirer of Najjarine’s game since he made his debut for Melbourne City as an 18-year-old.
“I was a big fan of him at Wanderers as well and I feel he’s a really good talented pocket player,” Italiano said.
“Wherever he has gone he hasn’t really played in the position that he’s best suited.
“Here he’ll be more of a central focus as a 10 and someone that we can build around.”
Najjarine is the second men’s signing the Phoenix confirmed on the final day of the registration window, with Dan Edwards joining the club from National Premier Leagues (NPL) Victoria premiers Avondale FC.
“I’m very happy. We’ve got a lot of depth now, we’ve got a lot of competition for spots, and I think we’re in a very healthy spot at the moment,” Italiano said.
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Najjarine was most recently on the books of Western United for the 2024-25 season where he played 19 games, scoring one goal and registering two assists.
“I’m excited to have signed with the Phoenix and I can’t wait to get started,” said Najjarine.
“After speaking to the boss I believe it’s the right environment for me and where I want to be.
“Chief’s got belief in me. When he called telling me he wants to play me as a 10 I was even more excited to prove to everyone else why I should be playing that position.
“That’s where I’m best and where I can do my stuff.
“I’m very attack minded. I like to create opportunities for myself and my teammates and hopefully I can bring a lot of success to the club.
He continued: “It was a successful season and I was happy to be part of it. I think it will set me up for the future.
“But for myself I’ve got a lot to prove. I’ve been wanting to have a good run of starts in the A-League for a while now and I think this is the best environment for me.
“I’ve been a bit unlucky with my body but right now I’m feeling the best I ever have so I’m excited to join the Phoenix.”
