His decorated professional football journey has taken him around the world and lasted close to two decades, but goalkeeper Adam Federici is now ready to hang up the gloves.
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Macarthur FC announced on Saturday afternoon that the South Coast talent had decided to retire due to injury, less than a month after taking over the captaincy, and four weeks out from the 2021/22 A-League Men's season getting under way.
The Huskisson gloveman was set for his second campaign at the Bulls, having returned to Australia last year after playing in more than 280 games for various English Premier and Championship League clubs.
Highlights included helping Reading make the semi finals of the 2010 FA Cup, while he also played a key role in Reading's 1-all Cup draw with EPL giants Manchester United three years earlier.
"I have been so fortunate to have the career I've had. While I would've love to lead the Bulls this season, my body is in a different position and cannot continue. Through my journey I have played with wonderful coaches, players and clubs and I'm grateful that I got to finish my career on my home turf," Federici said.
"I am honoured to have been able to represent Australia and my time with the national team will stay fondly in my memories forever. For now, my focus is to work on recovery, but I look forward to what the game has in store for me going forward."
Macarthur head coach Ante Milicic said the club was thankful that Federici joined them in their inaugural season.
"The fact that we could attract one of the best Australian goalkeepers was a great honour. To have someone of his calibre and experience in our inaugural season was a privilege," he said.
"He was to be our captain this season but unfortunately due to injuries he has decided to retire. Adam has been an outstanding leader in the club, and we thank him for all his efforts. He has played a large role in shaping the club's values and culture from the beginning and I am extremely proud of his journey so far with the Bulls.
"He has been a great role model for the younger players in the squad, having shared his experience and knowledge with them. It's a sad day for Bulls fans knowing Adam won't be part of the squad this season, but as a club we will help and support him through his rehab and continue the relationship built to extend in some way in the future."
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Joshua Bartlett
A sporting fanatic who is keen to promote all codes in the Illawarra and abroad. Mercury's chief football reporter.
A sporting fanatic who is keen to promote all codes in the Illawarra and abroad. Mercury's chief football reporter.
