Western Sydney Wanderers have signed former academy star Mohamed Al-Taay after almost four years away from the Isuzu UTE A-League club.
Al-Taay – an Iraq international midfielder – has signed a one-and-a-half-year deal following his Wellington Phoenix departure.
It means a return to Western Sydney for the local product, who left the Wanderers in June 2021 having joined in the second year of the club’s Academy in 2016 though he did not make a senior appearance at Wanderland.
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Prior to his Wanderers comeback, the 24-year-old enjoyed stints with Newcastle Jets and the Phoenix.
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“It feels amazing to be back home at the Wanderers, I am honoured,” said Al-Taay.
“I know the responsibility it takes to represent the badge and area, and I am hungry to do everything I can everyday to make fans proud and repay the favour shown in me from the coaching staff.
“Since I’ve left the club, as a footballer and a person, I’ve gained a lot of experience and learnt a lot from playing in the A-League and representing my country in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
“My goal is to help the team in every way possible and make an impact when given the chance to show my ability and I aim to also help Iraq qualify for the World Cup.”
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Al-Taay is the third new face at the Wanderers during the January transfer window, after Alex Gersbach and Jarrod Carluccio.
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“Great to bring another Wanderers product back home,” said Wanderers head coach Alan Stajcic.
“With his international exposure combined with A-Leagues experience we are bringing in a key player that will contribute to the team.”
Featured image: Western Sydney Wanderers
