Western United can confirm that, at the players request, Nicolas Milanovic has departed the Club and will return home for non-footballing reasons.
The Club recognises that player welfare takes priority over football and as a result, while the outcome is regrettable, the Club was willing to allow the player to return home.
Prior to departing Western United, Milanovic wished to thank the Club for his time in Green and Black, saying he leaves with many cherished memories.
“Thank you to all the staff, players and fans for making my time at Western United so special,” he said.
“I’ll always have the Green and Black in my heart.”
Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato thanked Milanovic for his contribution to the Club and wished him well for the future.
“There are often times when football takes a backwards step. As a Club, we value our people and we often consider what’s best for the individual and the Club. In this instance, we have helped facilitate a move back home for Milo at his request,” he said.
“On the field, we have seen the progression of Nicolas over the course of the four seasons and it is pleasing to see him grow into the footballer he is today. We wish him every success with his next steps and thank him for his contribution to Western United FC.”
Milanovic joined Western United in the New South Wales hub in the Club’s first ever season in the Isuzu UTE A-League Men.
He went on to make his debut the following season, totalling 10 appearances before going one better in 2021/22, playing 11 matches.
In February 2022, Milanovic became Western United’s youngest ever goal scorer with his maiden senior strike in a 2-2 draw against Macarthur FC.
Milanovic was a part of United’s inaugural Championship-winning team and played an important role in helping the Green and Black create history.
The attacker has followed that up with a strong season so far in 2022/23, scoring four goals in 15 matches.
Everyone at Western United thanks Nic for his efforts at the Club and wishes him all the very best as he continues to develop in the future.
