Sydney FC have continued to strengthen their Isuzu UTE A-League squad with the capture of former Celtic and Poland youth international striker Patryk Klimala ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.
The 26-year-old arrives in Sydney on loan from Polish top-flight club Śląsk Wroclaw; the Sky Blues have an option to buy the former Poland Under-19, U20 and U21 international at the end of his first season in the Isuzu UTE A-League.
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Klimala signed for Scottish giants Celtic in January 2020, where he won the Scottish Premiership and two Scottish Cups in Glasgow before his departure to MLS outfit New York Red Bulls in April 2021.
It was in the United States where Klimala flourished, notching 14 goals and 11 assists across two seasons and partnered former Sydney FC striker Fabio Gomes in the Red Bulls’ attack.
After securing Klimala’s services for the 2024-25 Isuzu UTE A-League season, Sydney FC head coach Ufuk Talay identified the pacey attacker as the club’s top transfer target this off-season.
“Patryk is a player we’ve had our eyes on for some time,” Talay said.
“He was absolutely our number one target so I’m delighted we’ve signed the deal.
“He’s got great speed, he is strong in the air, and his work rate is exceptional. He is the type of forward who is always a threat in behind the defence, and he will bring a lot of energy to the team.
“I really like his hunger to score goals and his determination to improve,” he continued. He’s still relatively young, and I believe he has a lot of potential to grow.
“We’re excited to see what he can bring to the squad this season, and I’m confident he will quickly become a fan favourite here at Sydney FC.”
Klimala’s arrival in Sydney comes after the addition of former Bayern Munich and Juventus winger Douglas Costa to the Sky Blues’ squad for both the 2024-25 Isuzu UTE A-League season as well as the AFC Champions League 2 campaign, which begins for Sydney FC on Thursday, September 19 at home to Hong Kong side Eastern FC.
Sydney have confirmed the Polish frontman will push for minutes in the club’s opening ACL2 clash.
Klimala says the prospect of competing both in the Isuzu UTE A-League and Asia was a key reason for his commitment to the club on what could become a permanent deal by the end of his first season in Sky Blue.
“I’m thrilled to be joining Sydney FC at an extremely exciting time for the club and for the A-League,” he said.
“I’ve heard a lot about the passion for football in Australia, and I’m excited by Sydney FC’s playing style which suits my game, as well as our Asian Champions League campaign.
“I understand Sydney FC has a rich history of winning trophies and I’m eager to contribute and create a legacy.
“In short, I can’t wait to experience life down under.”
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