Brisbane Roar has today confirmed the departure of long-time club servant Ivan Franjic to Russian outfit Torpedo Moscow.
“Today’s announcement is the result of four weeks of negotiation with Ivan’s new club and we’re satisfied with the final structure of the deal,” Brisbane Roar Managing Director Sean Dobson said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for him to continue his career development by playing in an overseas league.
“He has played a big part in our recent success, playing over 100 games for Brisbane Roar, and we thank him for being a loyal servant to our football club over the past five years.”
Formerly a semi-professional footballer and full-time carpenter, Franjic joined the Brisbane club in September 2009 as an injury replacement for Andrew Packer.
Following two short-term replacement deals, the Melbourne-born utility player was rewarded with his first professional contract aged 22.
Franjic then blossomed into one of the Hyundai A-League’s finest players under the tutelage of the Brisbane staff, showing versatility to play at either right full-back or right-wing as Brisbane won three Championships in four years.
He also represented Australia at the recent FIFA World Cup in Brazil, providing the assist for the Tim Cahill to score the Socceroos’ goal against Chile, before a hamstring injury curtailed his tournament.
Despite the loss, Dobson said Head Coach Mike Mulvey and his coaching staff would continue to build the squad for the upcoming season that will include FFA Cup, AFC Champions League and defending their Hyundai A-League Premiership and Championship.
“Our playing group is not yet finalised and we’re continually working hard to ensure we can recruit the right types of players into the squad,” Dobson explained.
“We will continue to refine and build a balanced squad through strong leadership, a focus on club culture and showing faith in our younger brigade of players.”
Franjic’s departure is effective immediately.
Brisbane Roar memberships for the upcoming season are now on sale. Click here for more information and to sign up with the reigning Champions today!
