Adelaide United have handed experienced defender Bart Vriends a new one-year contract, with the option to further extend the Dutchman’s deal.
Vriends joined the Reds in 2024 and has quickly become a key component of the club’s defensive unit and leadership group.
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Forming an impressive partnership alongside young defender Panagiotis Kikianis, the experienced centre-back has made 33 appearances in Red, scoring two goals, and could now be tied to the club until the end of the 2027-28 Isuzu UTE A-League season should the second year of his new deal be triggered.
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“My gut told me to stay,” said Vriends after inking his new contract.
“I want to be a strong leader in the dressing room and help build real foundations here.
He continued: “I love Adelaide, I love this Club, the people, and playing at the beautiful Coopers Stadium.
“I’m excited to call this place home for at least another season and keep working towards what we’re building.”
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Interim Adelaide United Technical Director, Mitch van Gellekom, said securing Vriends’ signature was an immediate priority upon stepping into the role.
“This was my first task in this interim role – to secure a key leader in our defence for at least another season,” van Gellekom said.
“Bart has a strong voice, sets high standards, and he’s a terrific role model on and off the pitch for our young squad. We’re thrilled he has committed to the Reds and will continue to play a major part in the group.”
Prior to arriving in Australia, Vriends built an outstanding career in the Netherlands, captaining Sparta Rotterdam and making 192 appearances for the club.
