Melbourne City FC is excited to announce the signing of Italian attacking midfielder Manuel Pucciarelli through to the end of the 2022/23 season.
Pucciarelli, who turned 30 in June, brings a wealth of experience in one of the world’s top leagues, having made 136 appearances in Italy’s Serie A – scoring 16 goals and assisting a further 7. He has also featured in 78 Serie B matches – scoring 10 times and assisting another 7.
The Italian’s versatility will add another dimension to City’s attack having played as an attacking midfielder, second striker and inverted left winger throughout his career.
After spending the majority of his career at Empoli FC, Pucciarelli has most recently been playing in the UAE, where he played nearly 20 matches until the season was disrupted due to Covid-19. He is expected to join the City squad mid-October, after completing hotel quarantine.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo said:
“Manuel is a really talented player, he has excellent technical skills to play as a midfielder but also the sharpness to play as an attacker which makes him the ideal player for our squad.
“We took our time in making this choice, not only were we looking for these attributes, we also want a player with the ability and desire to work hard in and out of possession, which is a vital for the way we play football.
“I’m confident the fans will enjoy watching Manuel as a player. Adding a player of his calibre, on a multiyear deal, shows the Club’s ambition to not only build on last season’s success, but also continue to add stability and bring in players that can play our attacking style of football.”
Manuel Pucciarelli said:
“I’m very excited about joining Melbourne City FC, I’ve heard a lot of good things about the club and it’s always special to join the Champions of the A-League.
“I’ve spoken to Michael [Petrillo] and Patrick [Kisnorbo] about the style of football that City plays and the quality of players in the squad. There are talented players across the whole pitch and City plays a style of attacking football that suits the way I like to play.
“I’m looking forward to living in Melbourne, joining my new teammates and meeting the fans of the club. I want to be part of a team who defends its A-League crown.”
Manuel’s now locked in for the new A-League season – but are you? Head to citymembership.com.au to become a Member!
