Wellington Phoenix have confirmed the departures of three first team players ahead of the new Isuzu UTE A-League season with Stefan Colakovski, Dublin Boon and Francisco ‘Chico’ Geraldes all moving on.
Recruited ahead of the 2024-25 season, Colakovski joined the Phoenix after leaving Perth Glory but only managed six appearances before rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) – an injury which ruled him out for the rest of the season.
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“I just want to say thanks to all the fans for the support,” said Colakovski after news of his release was made public.
He added: “I wish things could’ve been different!”
Meanwhile Portuguese attacking midfielder Geraldes joined the Nix on-loan from Malaysian side Johor Darul Ta’zim F.C. during the mid-season transfer window and made five first team appearances before suffering a knee injury which then saw him miss the remaining five matches of the season.
“I had a great time in Wellington,” said former Sporting CP academy graduate Geraldes.
“I was willing to stay but unfortunately we couldn’t make it work.”
Meanwhile reserve goalkeeper Boon leaves Sky Stadium without making a senior appearance for the side last season with goalkeepers Josh Oluwayemi and Alby Kelly-Heald ahead of him in the pecking order.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity I had at the Phoenix,” Boon said.
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“It was a great year for my development and I want to especially thank Ruben [Parker] for the time and effort he put into the GK space.”
The departures of Colakovski, Geraldes and Boon follow on from the exits of defensive duo Scott Wootton and Sam Sutton, both of whom went on to join Perth Glory.
Furthermore A-Leagues icon Kosta Barbarouses has also moved on from Wellington Phoenix, opting to sign a one-year deal with Western Sydney Wanderers.
“We unfortunately only got to see all three of them in Phoenix colours for a limited amount of time,” said Wellington Phoenix Director of Football, Shaun Gill.
“Knee injuries cut-short both Stefan’s and Chico’s promising seasons, while Dublin was stuck behind two quality goalkeepers who were vying to be the number one.
“But all three were great teammates and made a positive impact off the pitch.
“We wish Stefan and Chico all the best with their rehab and look forward to seeing them back playing football in the future.
“And I’m sure Dublin has taken a lot out of his first pro experience and his career is just getting started.”
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