Bozhidar Kraev leaves Wellington Phoenix to join Western Sydney Wanderers

Western Sydney Wanderers have lured an A-League All-Stars representative from Wellington Phoenix.

Western Sydney Wanderers have made their first major signing under the tenure of new coach Alen Stajcic, snaring Bulgarian international Bozhidar Kraev from Wellington Phoenix.

The 27-year-old attacking midfielder and A-League All-Stars representative made 54 appearances in two seasons with the Phoenix, scoring 13 goals.

“What brings me here is my personal motivation to play in a very good club, which I believe that Western Sydney Wanderers is,” Kraev said after signing a two-year deal with the Stajcic-coached club.

“I received amazing interest from the club, which made me feel like I was wanted here, which is most important for a player.

“As a player, I think I can bring a lot of creativity and experience to the team. I am a team player who can help my teammates.

“I hope I achieve a successful season individually and collectively and bring Western Sydney Wanderers back to where I think they deserve to be – around the top teams in Australia.”

Bozhidar Kraev has left Wellington to join rival A-League club Western Sydney. Picture: Jonathan DiMaggio/Getty Images

Kraev said his stint with Wellington had been “remarkable personally and professionally”.

“I would like to thank all the players, coaches and staff members that I worked with and of course all the supporters,” he said.

“I wish all the best to (Phoenix coach) Giancarlo Italiano and the team for the future.”

Kraev’s departure is another blow for the Phoenix, who have also lost star Polish marksman Oskar Zawada, who earlier this month joined Dutch outfit RKC Waalwijk.

Originally published as Bozhidar Kraev leaves Wellington Phoenix to join Western Sydney Wanderers