Talks are set to occur between Sydney FC and former Italy international Alessandro Del Piero to determine whether the 39-year-old wishes to continue playing for the A-League team next season.
Having joined the Sky Blues in September 2012 as the highest-paid player in A-League history, Del Piero has played for two seasons with the club.
He scored 14 goals during his first year in Sydney after almost 20 years at Juventus, which included four goals in a dominant 7-1 win against Wellington Phoenix, although he couldn’t help the Sky Blues reach the finals at season’s end.
This season, he began as captain but has struggled to match last year’s scoring successes. He has also been mentioned in transfer rumors regarding a potential move to PTT Rayong in the Thai Premier League.
Chairman Scott Barlow commented: “I’ve come across a few reports, but my knowledge is based on those only. Alessandro has a contract with us until the season concludes, not after that.
“I plan to meet with Alessandro to discuss his future, as we’ve always agreed to do, before January wraps up.”
For soccer betting enthusiasts, there is an acknowledgment that Sydney coach Frank Farina might face a significant rebuilding task if Del Piero departs, especially since another key player, Brett Emerton from Blackburn Rovers, recently announced his retirement.
Farina has already re-signed Matt Thompson, added Milos Dimitrijevic to the squad, and let go of Panama international Yairo Yau.
Barlow further stated: “Our salary cap is nearly maxed out, but Emerton’s retirement opens up some possibilities. If Frank and his team can identify a player who would enhance the squad for the remainder of the season, we have assured them we will provide the necessary funding.”
