Perth Glory have rewarded Japanese triallist Hiroaki Aoyama with a contract for the 2024-25 Isuzu UTE A-League season.
Aoyama makes the move to Perth after starring for Blacktown City and Marconi Stallions in NPLM NSW.
The 27-year-old, who is a former Nagoya Grampus junior, won the 2022 title with Blacktown and established himself as one of the best midfielders in the NSW competition following his switch to Marconi, where he scored three goals in over 30 appearances.
“Playing in the A-League has been my dream since I came to Australia and I’m looking forward to taking on the new challenge,” said Aoyama, who scored for the Glory in their 4-2 pre-season victory over Armadale SC on Tuesday night.
“I will give my all to make the next season a great one and want to say thank you to all the people that have supported me.”
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Aoyama is the latest signing at the Glory as new head coach David Zdrilic rebuilds a club that finished bottom of the standings in 2023-24.
Josh Risdon, Brandon O’Neill, Andriano Lebib (first scholarship contract), Khoa Ngo (first scholarship contract), Zach Lisolajski, Anas Hamzaoui, Nathanael Blair, Nicholas Pennington, Taras Gomulka, Will Freney (first scholarship contract), Adam Bugarija, Abdelelah Faisal and Lachlan Barr have also joined Perth.
“One of our key priorities was to ensure we have a range of central midfield options and Hiro definitely adds something to that mix,” Zdrilic said.
“He’s made a really positive impression since he’s come in and we look forward to seeing him compete hard for a first-team spot this season.”
Glory football director Stan Lazaridis added: “Hiro backed himself to come over on trial and secure a contract and that’s exactly what he’s done.
“He’s a leftie who can play in a number of midfield roles, he has quick feet, great vision and a fantastic work ethic.”
