Iran-born Australian Daniel Arzani completes move to Manchester City
Manchester City have acquired the promising Australian teenager from their sister club, Melbourne City FC. Arzani is most likely to be loaned out, with Scottish giants Celtic being his destination. He follows in the footsteps of Aaron Mooy, who was also bought by City from Melbourne. Arzani was also a part of the Australian squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Here's more!
Arzani's career at the A-League
Arzani started playing for Sydney FC's youth team before moving to Melbourne City. After just 4 starts in the Melbourne squad, he ended up having the most number of successful dribbles (31). At the conclusion of the 2017-18 season, Arzani was named in the A-League Team of The Season. Notably, he developed his talents by playing street football and futsal.
Comments from City Football Group's managing director
Brian Marwood, the Managing Director of Global Football of the City Football Group has spoken enthusiastically about Arzani. Marwood, in an interview, said "In a short period of time, Daniel has developed into one of Australia's brightest young stars and has demonstrated the drive and raw talent required for success at the highest level,"
The other signings by Manchester City
City had signed Leicester City's Premier League winner Riyad Mahrez for a sum of £60 million. They have also picked up younger prospects like Claudio Gomes, whom they have roped in from Paris Saint-Germain. Further, Manchester City have signed Philippe Sandler. Both the City Football Group's global structure and the City Football Academy have facilitated their scouting of exciting footballing talents.
Arzani's reactions on the move
"Having the chance to train and play in Europe is a dream come true and a challenge I'm confident will only help me improve as a player," said Arzani. Continuing, "Melbourne City has a unique position in Australia with a clear pathway for young, ambitious players to first challenge themselves against Australia's best, and then progress to Europe to play against the world's best."
