George Timotheou has made the next step on his journey to becoming one of Australia’s top defenders, recently signing a two-year deal with A-League side Adelaide United.
The Greek Australian defender moved to Germany in 2018 from Sydney Olympic FC to join Schalke’s reserve side. Impressing from day one, he was quickly moved up after 23 matches to train with the first team where he made one appearance.
He was loaned out to Belgian outfit, Zulte Waregem, to get more game time, yet decided a move back to Australia would be the best choice to develop his career. It was at this time that George discovered he had an issue with his bicuspid valve, sidelining him for up to nine months.
“It’s very exciting because now I’m obviously at a better place than what I had been my whole career,” Timotheou said in a prior interview earlier this year.
With his heart now operating a “full capacity”, George is looking to get back on the pitch and earn his way back to the top.
“I haven’t played too many senior games in the last season or two, but that’s why I’m here and that’s what I want to do – help the team and this Club be successful,” Timotheou says.
“It’s going to be a big season for this group and I think we’re going in positive direction to bring more success to South Australia.”
Adelaide United Director of Football, Bruce Djite, said while missing a substantial amount of football over the past year, he is working his way back to his “best level”.
“His technical ability, passing, and defensive attributes were evident from his first day with the group and he impressed both Carl and Ross very quickly,” Djite says.
“He has many qualities and, despite being just 23, he is a natural leader that will add to the depth and strength of our defence.”
