Connor Pain has left Western United in the Isuzu UTE A-League to join Saudi Arabian second-tier outfit Al-Orobah Football Club for the 2023-24 season.
Pain has sealed a transfer to Saudi Arabia, where megastars Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have headlined an influx of players making the move to the country’s top flight – the Saudi Pro League.
A foundation player for Western’s inaugural campaign in 2019, the 29-year-old helped lead the club to their maiden Championship in 2021-22.
INS AND OUTS: Isuzu UTE A-League 2023-24 Transfer Centre
He now joins Al-Orobah, who compete in the second division having earned promotion to the Saudi Pro League for the first time in their history in 2012-13.
“Being a foundation player, I’ve seen first-hand the growth of this club which hit its pinnacle for me with the 21-22 season, winning the Championship,” Pain said.
“It’s been the toughest decision I’ve ever had to make in football but something that has always sparked my interest is the ability football gives you to explore different cultures.
“I’ve met people along the way from players to staff that I will remain friends with forever, it’s been such a special experience.
“To all the fans that have supported both myself and the team through the good times and the trying, I hope you understand my decision and I just want to say thanks to all of you, so very sincerely.”
Pain leaves Western after 105 A-League Men matches – the most appearances in the club’s history and the first player to ever reach the 100-game milestone.
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The former Melbourne Victory and Central Coast Mariners winger scored three goals in 26 ALM matches last season.
“Since the club’s inception, Connor has been an exceptional professional and person for our club both on and off the field. He has endeared himself to his peers and our fans and was well respected by all,” said Western’s general manager of football Mal Impiombato
“Connor has always expressed his desire to pursue footballing opportunities abroad and we are delighted that we are able to help facilitate his football ambitions.
“He was an integral part of our Championship winning squad in 2021-22 and he helped shape and influence the Club culture to what it is today.
“On behalf of everyone at the club, we wish Connor every success with his professional career abroad.”
