Sydney FC has confirmed the release of Iraqi midfielder Ali Abbas from the remainder of his contract to allow him to pursue a career opportunity overseas.
Abbas spent four seasons with the club, playing 68 times in the Hyundai A-League, and featuring three times in the Westfield FFA Cup. The former Newcastle Jet also played in four AFC Champions League games for the club.
The left winger and full back thanked the Sky Blues Members, fans and staff for their support during his time at the club.
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“I am very sad to be leaving Sydney FC but this is a good opportunity overseas,” Abbas said.
“I have really enjoyed my time here and I am so proud to have represented the fantastic members and fans at Allianz Stadium.
“The support I have received throughout the years has made me proud to be a part of the Sky Blue family and the club will always remain in my memory.
“I’d like to thank everyone at Sydney FC and I wish them well for the future.”
Sydney FC Head Coach Graham Arnold thanked Ali for his services as he wished the Iraqi international well in the next stage of his career.
“Ali has been a great servant for Sydney FC and has showed fantastic courage,” Arnold said.
“We would have liked to have kept Ali for another year but understand this was an opportunity he couldn’t turn down.
“I’d like to thank Ali for everything he’s given to the club over the past four seasons and I wish him well on this new chapter.”
