History will be made when Western United make their Hyundai A-League debut in three days’ time.
United will travel to New Zealand’s capital for round 1, 10 months after winning the race to become the A-League’s newest club.
Here are 10 defining moments in the lead-up to the Green and Black’s first game.
Western Melbourne Group win bid to become A-League’s 11th club.
Ten months ago, the dream became a reality. An A-League team in Melbourne’s west was born under the provisional name ‘Western Melbourne Group’ and would enter the competition in the 2019/20 season.
Bold plans of a 15,000-seater, privately owned stadium in Tarneit was announced as well as a surrounding precinct.
Western United makes its first signing.
International marquee Panagiotis Kone became the club’s first ever signing as well as the first marquee. Kone arrived with plenty of international experience, particularly in Italy’s Serie A, as well as three FIFA World Cup appearances in 2014.
First Australian signs for United
Socceroos right-back Josh Risdon was announced as the club’s first Australian signing. Formerly of Perth Glory and Western Sydney Wanderers, Risdon also brings international experience having started all three games for Australia at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Name and colours revealed.
The West is United! And it’s also Green and Black. The club opts for unique colours never before seen in the A-League, to go with an inclusive name for the football club.
Club logo is revealed
The club’s inaugural logo is revealed. After consulting with its community and fan base, the club opted to go with a design that focuses on the ‘W’ as the main element.
Mark Rudan announced as inaugural coach
In an impressive first year with the Phoenix, Rudan returned to Australia to lead the A-League new boys. His immediate influence is undeniable as his vision and drive was soon on show.
Alessandro Diamanti becomes United’s second marquee
The silky Italian playmaker adds quality to what is already a talented squad. Diamanti, like Kone, brings experience from Serie A, as well as the English Premier League. United’s midfield beings to take shape.
Western United plays a first pre-season game.
A pre-season clash against Caroline Springs George Cross gives fans of the west the first opportunity to see their side. United run-out 4-0 winners in front of a strong crowd, with Valentino Yuel scoring the club’s historic first-ever goal.
Besart Berisha is Green and Black!
The A-League’s all-time top scorer joins United after a stint in Japan. Formerly of Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory, Berisha will look to add to his A-League goal tally of 106 while wearing Green and Black.
Inaugural captain announced
Diamanti’s experience and leadership qualities see him take the captain’s armband in the club’s first season.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
United’s first home in the A-League is Saturday, October 19 against reigning Premiers Perth Glory at GMHBA Stadium in Geelong.
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