Former Socceroos prodigy Daniel Arzani joins Melbourne Victory after parting ways with Macarthur

Daniel Arzani has made the switch to Melbourne Victory after just one season with Macarthur FC.

Melbourne Victory has confirmed the signing of former Socceroos prodigy Daniel Arzani.

News Corp Australia last Tuesday revealed the Victory’s interest in Arzani, who as a teenager played for the Socceroos at the 2018 World Cup.

And with Arzani’s departure from Macarthur FC having since been finalised despite the 24-year-old attacking weapon having had a year to run on his Bulls contract, the Victory on Sunday announced he had joined the Melbourne club on a two-year deal.

Daniel Arzani (left) has joined Melbourne Victory. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

“We’re incredibly pleased to welcome Daniel to Melbourne Victory and believe he has all the attributes to be a strong contributor to our success this season,” Victory coach Tony Popovic said.

“We’ve seen what he can produce. He’s a dynamic, young forward who has shown he can deliver, and we believe the environment at Melbourne Victory will allow him to return to his best.”

Former Melbourne City star Arzani – who returned to the A-League last year after a four-season stint in Europe on loan at Celtic (Scotland), Utrecht (Netherlands), AGF (Denmark) and Lommel (Belgium) while contracted to English Premier League giants Manchester City – said he was “excited “ to join the Victory.

“I understand the expectation that comes from joining a club like Melbourne Victory and I want to prove myself to the best fans in the league, week in, week out,” he said.

“(Victory home ground) AAMI Park is a special place for me and I believe that I can be the best version of myself at Melbourne Victory.”

The Victory also confirmed the departure of their skipper for the past seasons, Josh Brillante, who has signed a two-year deal with Western Sydney Wanderers.

Melbourne Victory director of football John Didulica said: “We thank Josh for his significant contribution to Melbourne Victory and wish him and his family well in their next step.”

After a tough 2022-23 season at the Victory, Brillante said he wanted to be “back enjoying” his football.

“I’ve seen over the years that the Wanderers are a very passionate club with a great member and fan base,” he said.

“It’s a big club with a winning mentality that excites me. I want to add to the club that is already so positive on and off the pitch.”