One of Sydney FC’s longest-serving players, Paulo Retre, is departing the club for an opportunity overseas.
The versatile midfielder calls time on his days in Sky Blue after six seasons and 176 appearances – the eighth-most of any player in Sydney FC history.
Retre has won five major trophies during his time at the club, including the 2019-20 Premiership/Championship double.
Confirmation of his next club is imminent, with multiple reports linking the 30-year-old to Indian Super League club FC Goa.
“I’ve had a fantastic six seasons at Sydney FC and they will go down as the highlight
of my football career,” Retre said.
“It is a fantastic club and there have been so many great people I’ve had the
pleasure to play and work with.
“I’m sad to be leaving but this is a great new challenge which I’m looking forward to
immensely and I wish this great club nothing but the best for the future. I will miss it.”
Retre is the fourth player to depart Sydney FC after the 2022-23 Isuzu UTE A-League season, following Thomas Heward-Belle (Western United), Alex Wilkinson (retired), Adam Le Fondre (Hibernian), and Zane Schreiber (Melbourne City).
Sky Blues head coach Steve Corica hailed Retre as “a great player and an even greater Sydney FC person” as he bid farewell to the reliable midfielder.
“He has played different roles and has always been exceptional, often without the
recognition he has deserved,” Corica said.
“His commitment and club-first attitude make him a true Sky Blue legend.
“His influence and character around the changing room will be a huge miss and we
are sorry to see him go.
“This is a fabulous opportunity for him and I wish him the very best of luck.”
