Western United has bolstered their squad with the signing of Swiss defender Leo Lacroix on a one-year deal.
The 29-year-old joins from FC Sion in Switzerland, the same club with which he achieved his professional debut in 2009.
Upon making the journey to the west of Melbourne, Lacroix expressed his excitement at exploring a new challenge and making his mark in the A-League.
“I am very happy to complete this deal and become a Western United player,” he said.
“This is a big opportunity for me in a new country and I can’t wait to get started with my new coaches and teammates.
“I have heard good things about Australian football, about the competition, and I look forward to competing against the great players here.
“I am very grateful to Western United for this opportunity and I look forward to competing for titles and hopefully achieving big things at this club.”
Lacroix arrives at Western United with a wealth of experience and adds further strength to an impressive back third.
Head Coach John Aloisi said centre-back was a priority position for him and his staff and he is buoyed by the qualities Lacroix will bring.
“Leo is a massive signing for us. We needed some more strength at the back and we have found the perfect player for us,” he said.
“He is a physical presence and has a wealth of experience in Europe. He will be a great leader in the team and most importantly, a top player.
“To have a player like this walk into our dressing room will give the whole squad a lift and some added motivation.
“I am really looking forward to meeting Leo and having him on the training pitch with us ahead of what I hope will be a big season for him at the club.”
Lacroix’s impressive career has seen him ply his trade in France and Germany as well as his native Switzerland. He has also featured in Europe’s top domestic continental competitions in both the UEFA Champions League and the Europa League.
Lacroix has also played once for the Suisse national team, making his debut in a friendly against Qatar in 2018.
