Arzani’s rise from rookie to FIFA World Cup hopeful

Since establishing himself in the senior squad late in 2017, Daniel Arzani has dazzled Melbourne City and Hyundai A-League fans alike with an impressive break-out season that saw him named the NAB Young Footballer of the Year at the Dolan Warren awards.

The turn of the new year saw a new look City attack that featured the 19-year-old as a regular in Warren Joyce’s starting XI. Arzani has since earned a spot in Bert van Marwijk’s 32-man preliminary Caltex Socceroos squad ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

We take a look at the key moments in Arzani’s 2017/18 campaign. 

The break-out performance

In Round 14, Arzani secured a come-from-behind 2-1 win over Wellington Phoenix at AAMI Park following an impressive performance as a second-half substitute, which saw him provide two assists for Ross McCormack.

First senior start

The youngster’s influence off the bench against Wellington saw him earn his first start in the senior squad three days later in City’s 2-0 win over Perth Glory at nib Stadium in Round 15.

First goal for City 

In Round 18, Arzani scored his first goal for Melbourne City with a brilliantly taken penalty in the Club’s 2-2 draw with Newcastle Jets at AAMI Park.

Ahead of his more experienced teammates, the youngster stepped up to the penalty spot and made no mistake with a confident shot into the bottom corner, leaving a diving Jack Duncan with no chance. 

PFA A-League Player of the Month nominations

Arzani’s technical quality, ability to dribble past defenders with ease and willingness to work hard in both halves of the field saw him named the PFA A-League Player of the Month for both January and February.

NAB Young Footballer of the Year

Following his outstanding season, Daniel Arzani was crowned the NAB Young Footballer of the Year for the 2017/18 season at the Dolan Warren Awards.

His incredible season saw him beat the likes of Bruce Kamau, Daniel De Silva, Joe Champness, Thomas Deng and Chris Ikonomidis to the award.

Caltex Socceroos calling

Throughout 2018, Arzani has showcased his ability to consistently perform at the highest level for his team – his performance against the Jets in City’s Semi Final loss was another example of his ability to perform on the biggest stage.

Arzani’s ability to thrive under pressure paired with exquisite skill set has seen him come in for a shot to be named in the Caltex Socceroos’ FIFA World Cup squad. If the youngster’s performances are anything to go by, there is no doubt that he will soon be representing his national team.