We are pleased to announce that Arion Sulemani and Emin Durakovic have both signed two-year Scholarship contracts ahead of the 2022/23 A-League Men season.
Sulemani and Durakovic are products of City’s Academy and have consistently impressed with their performances this NPL3 season, helping the team to the top of the table after 15 rounds.
A powerful striker possessing elite speed and strength, Sulemani has an eye for goal and leads the Golden Boot with 12 goals in 14 appearances at just 16 years of age.
Sulemani has impressed with his work rate both in and out of possession, and the South East local further adds to City’s attacking depth.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football, Michael Petrillo, highlighted Sulemani’s versatility in the front third and instincts in front of goal as key attributes.
“Arion has shown an ability to adapt to senior football and has a great attitude. We look forward to his continuing development over the next couple of seasons.”
Durakovic has been similarly impressive, his passing ability a feature throughout the season and sees him lead the team in assists while also notching up four goals of his own.
First joining City’s Academy as a 12-year-old, the silky left footer can play across midfield and has showcased an understanding of the game well beyond his years.
Petrillo described Durakovic as a ‘talented player who has been working very hard on his physical development.’
“He is technically proficient and has an amazing capacity to run, paired with a great passing range,” Petrillo said.
“Importantly, he has a great attitude to his football and shows great professionalism for such a young player.”
These singings continue to showcase the pathway City’s Academy provides, with plenty of names in recent times going on to appear for the national team and earn overseas moves.
“It makes me very proud to announce two more scholarship players from our Academy,” Petrillo said.
“We believe we have the best environment in Australia to develop elite talent, while at the same time providing a clear pathway to senior professional football and beyond.”
