Melbourne Victory full-back Adama Traore has sensationally quit the club, rejecting a new multi-year deal to pursue a dream career in Europe.
The left back, amongst a handful of favourites to take out the clubs best and fairest award, has had a stellar two years in Victory colours, culminating in a semi-finals appearance this season.
He follows loanees James Troisi and Tom Rogic out the door, as both return to their parent clubs, with Brazilian Gui Finkler also yet to sign a new deal with the A-League club.
The versatile Traore made 48 appearances for the club in total, and his coach Kevin Muscat was quick to praise his consistent performance levels during that time.
“Adama has been an important part of our defensive unit for the past two seasons and everyone at Victory was certainly keen to see him remain at the club, but despite our best efforts, that won’t be the case,” Muscat said via a press release.
“I realise the fans will be just as disappointed as we are that Adama is leaving, but I know every Victory supporter will join me in wishing him all the very best as he pursues his European dreams.”
Traore also took the time to explain his decision, as well as thank those around him in the Victory set up.
“I have loved every minute that I have been at Melbourne Victory,” Traore said.
“While I would like to have stayed at the club next season, the opportunity to play in Europe is too good for me to pass up.
“I’d like to thank Kevin, my teammates and all the staff at the club for everything they have done for me.
“I’d also like to say a big thank you to the fans who have made playing for Melbourne very, very special and even though I am looking forward to the next stage of my career I’m certainly going to miss playing here.”
Image Credit: Frank Khamees