Another A-League talent has made the switch to the second Greek football division with Xanthi FC after Adelaide United goalkeeper Paul Izzo was sold by the club for an undisclosed fee.
The 25-year-old Izzo’s transfer comes after sterling domestic seasons and also three FFA Cup wins.
“It is always hard to see the best talent leave the club and in our opinion Paul is the most talented goalkeeper in Australia,” United’s football director Bruce Djite said in a statement on Thursday.
“Paul has had over three successful years here as our number one goalkeeper and has been an instrumental member of the team.
“However as a club we believe in fostering talent and subsequently supporting those who wish to pursue careers abroad.”
Izzo will join Matt Jurman (Western Sydney Wanderers), Josh Brillante (Melbourne City) and Callan Elliott (Wellington Phoenix) in heading to Xanthi.
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Izzo took the time to say thank you to his loyal supporters at Adelaide United for giving him the opportunity to represent his hometown team.
“Leaving family and friends behind definitely made it a difficult decision, but I feel like I’m ready to further challenge myself and take the next step overseas,” said the former Australian under-23 international, who made 99 appearances across two stints with his hometown club.
“I’d like to thank everyone at Adelaide United for the way they’ve treated me over the last three years and for allowing me to make the move overseas.”
Xanthi FC were demoted to the second Greek football division this season before the takeover by Greek Australian business owner Bill Papas. New Xanthi FC coach Tony Popovic will use new the A-League recruits to help bring the club back into the Greek Super League.
