Western United’s star left-back and reigning Player of the Season Ben Garuccio has furthered his commitment to the Green and Black, signing a new deal until 2025.
The No.17 enjoyed a sensational debut year with the Club, playing a vital role in United’s Isuzu UTE A-League Men Championship win and earning nods in the PFA Team of the Season and the A-Leagues All-Stars.
In one of the best periods of his football career so far, Garuccio said he had no hesitation to extend his stay in the West.
“It was an easy decision obviously after the successes of last season, but not just that, I think the vision of this Club – it’s something that I want to be a part of and I don’t see myself anywhere else for the future,” he said.
“We’ve got great people around, everyone is working together and the goal is to be as successful as possible, and it makes it very easy for us as players to do our job when everything else is so well run.
“It’s a place I love coming every day, it’s very easy to come here every day and enjoy yourself. I don’t think I’ve ever felt as comfortable as I have here, not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well.
“I’m just rapt to be here for another three years. The Club has gone upwards, we’ve got our facilities being built now and that’ll be another exciting chapter for the Club. I’m so happy to be here for the future.”
Western United Head Coach John Aloisi has been delighted with Garuccio’s impact and said his contract renewal is a clear marker of United’s continued intentions to remain at the top.
“Ben has taken his game to another level here and off the pitch he has been so important in helping us build our culture. The fact that he wanted to commit to us is a true indication of the direction that we want to continue to go in,” he said.
“I’m really pleased we’ve been able to help Ben shine and I can’t wait for him to continue growing and pushing himself to reach new heights.”
Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato said Garuccio’s impact on the Club and its direction was a key reason why tying down his future was vital.
“We are delighted to extend Ben’s tenure at the Club. Ben is the ultimate professional on and off the field and he has played a significant part in driving the Club values and team culture,” he said.
“As our Player of the Year, Ben was a key contributor in our success last season and we are pleased to have secured his long-term commitment to our journey.”
Garuccio started all but two games last season, including each of the four Finals Series matches, racking up six assists and two goals.
Garuccio will now continue his pre-season preparations alongside his teammates ahead of the season opener in a months’ time, with a huge Grand Final rematch against Melbourne City.
