Australia, the moment has arrived to say "arrivederci". My adventure with Sydney FC is about to be concluded, and, even if it makes me rather sad, because I have had wonderful time here, I have communicated my decision to the club. I'm really grateful for the last two years and for the clubs request for me to remain and with whom, I am happy to explore new opportunities to continue our relationship. It hasn't been an easy choice, also because my life on and off the pitch has been fantastic, my family and I have really enjoyed these two wonderful years: Australia will remain in our hearts forever.
I've come to know and love this fabulous country, even though I have lived on the opposite side of the world, right from the first day, you made me feel "at home". For this I cannot be more grateful to anyone, above all to my supporters, not only those of Sydney FC, all of whom have always shown me their love and respect, in all the cities of Australia.
Together we have managed to do so much, it's enough just to think about the training camp in Jesolo, the first experience of this kind for an Australian team; this is an excellent point from which to make a new start, and even more so the support of our Sky Blues fans, constantly growing and ever closer to the team, so much so that in these two seasons the record attendances for the stadium have been rewritten. Now is the right moment to simply say "thank you" to everyone.
My greatest satisfaction is the rapid growth of the Australian football movement, with interest increasing incredibly for the public, television and sponsors, in this country, considered to be an undisputed role model in the world of sportive culture (both for athletes and spectators), the passion for this sport , that I love so much, is constantly growing.
I will remain a bit "Australian", and will continue to be close to the football movement in this country and the Australian Football Federation, also as ambassador of the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, that will take place right here next year.
The moment has arrived to make some changes. I am well aware that I have given a lot and received even more. Now I just need some time to think over all the prospective opportunities for my future.I would like to thank once again, the owner of Sydney FC Mr. David Traktovenko, the chairman Mr. Scott Barlow and his wife Alina, all of the staff and directors at the club, my team-mates, the technical staff, all of the supporters, this fabulous city and this wonderful country: arrivederci, Australia!
See ya mates
With love, Ale.
