Melbourne Victory have announced a major signing coup with the club’s former Golden Boot winner James Troisi to join Kevin Muscat’s squad for the 2016/17 Hyundai A-League season.
Troisi, who made 29 appearances and scored 12 goals for Victory in 2013/14, is back in Australia after stints in China, Saudi Arabia and Belgium.
Most recently, the 28-year-old Caltex Socceroo played for Liaoning Whowin in the Chinese Super League, where he cut short his contract to reunite with Victory.
“James is a quality player and individual, and we’re thrilled to welcome him back to Melbourne Victory,” said head coach Kevin Muscat.
“We’ve seen the level of football he has produced in the A-League and it’ll be exciting to see him back in our colours this season.
“James has built a strong resume playing at clubs all over the world, which has made him a more accomplished player, and we’re looking forward to him applying that experience at Victory.”
During his 2013/14 season at Victory, Troisi started in all but two matches, was named Players’ Player of the Season and scored three goals in the AFC Champions League.
Troisi’s football journey returns to Victory
Prior to his time in China, Troisi played for Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, after a season in Belgium’s first division with Zulte Waregem.
He made six appearances in Italy’s Serie A with Atalanta in 2012/13, following three seasons at Kayserispor in Turkey.
“When the opportunity was presented to return to Melbourne Victory, I didn’t hesitate,” Troisi said.
“I have extremely fond memories of my time at the club. The support I received from the coaches, my teammates and the fans was outstanding, and I can’t wait to represent the club again.
“I enjoyed my time overseas and now I’m back to help Victory achieve more on-field success.”
Troisi has earned 28 Socceroos caps, making his debut in 2008 and last representing Australia in November last year in a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Bangladesh.
In January last year, he famously scored the winning goal in injury time of the AFC Asian Cup Final to help the Socceroos lift the trophy for the first time.
James Troisi
Date of birth: July 3, 1988
Age: 28
Place of birth: Adelaide, Australia
Position: Midfielder/Forward
Height: 179cm
Weight: 70kg
Previous clubs: Liaoning Whowin (2016, 3 appearances), Al Ittihad (2015-16, 8 appearances), Zulte Waregem (2014-15, 21 appearances), Melbourne Victory (2013-14, 29 appearances), Atalanta (2012-13, 6 appearances), Kayserispor (2009-12, 64 appearances), Genclerbirligi (2008-09, 29 appearances)
