Melbourne City FC is excited to have locked in another of its brightest Academy talents, 16-year-old midfielder Lawrence Wong signing a three-year scholarship contract with an option for a further season.
A creative attacking midfielder with the speed and technical ability to also play out wide, Wong has a strong futsal background through his junior years and only took up the outdoor game in 2018.
His introduction to the Club came via the City Football Schools program and his skills were quickly evident, Wong accepting a place in the Club’s Academy in July 2019.
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He becomes the second player to complete City’s full Player Development Pathway, transitioning from City Football Schools through the Club’s Academy teams to signing a first-team contract.
While a foot injury sidelined Wong for the first half of the current VPL1 season, he’s since returned to make nine appearances and net three goals, all while training with the first team in the early stages of pre-season.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football, Michael Petrillo, spoke highly of Wong’s potential.
“Since joining our Academy Lawrence has shown tremendous talent, particularly in the past 18 months where his development has accelerated significantly.”
“He’s made his mark at every age group in our Academy and having watched him in training with our senior squad so far this pre-season, he does not look out of place.
“If he continues to work hard and take his opportunities, I believe he will be a player that City fans will enjoy watching for years to come.”
Having seen his rise through the Academy ranks firsthand, Senior Academy Manager, Simon Zappia, said the scholarship contract was a great reward for Wong’s dedication.
“Lawrence’s dedication and resilience have been evident throughout his journey in the Academy.
“In the early days he was one of the hardest working through the COVID lockdowns and in recent years, he has had to battle through several long-term injuries. It’s fantastic to see he has now got the reward for his hard work.
“Lawrence likes to express himself both on and off the pitch and I look forward to seeing his technical qualities and creativity on the ball shine in our first team environment.”
Fresh from signing his first professional contract, Lawrence Wong spoke about his excitement in joining the first-team squad.
“I’m really excited and grateful for this opportunity.
“For every kid in the Academy, it is always a dream to sign with the first team. It’s been a long journey to get to this point, but the hard work is just starting now and it’s only the beginning for me.”
