Macarthur FC Captain Adam Federici has announced his retirement from football due to injury before the commencement of the 2021/22 Isuzu UTE A-League season.
The 6-foot-2 shot-stopper is hanging up the boots after a successful career, appearing in over 280 matches across the English Premier and Championship Leagues and having featured in the 28 matches of the Bulls’ inaugural season.
In just his first appearance in the A-League, Federici made the equal most saves and was also featured as part of the Best XI in FIFA 21.
Federici departed his home soil at the age of 17 to pursue his football career overseas beginning his career with Wolverhampton Wanderers, before moving to Torres in Serie C1. After short stints with Wanderers and Torres, Federici returned to England, suiting up for 11 seasons with Reading.
Regarded as one of the best keepers to have played for Berkshire-based Reading, Federici starred in the clubs League One campaign in 2006/07, gaining promotion back into the Premier League.
After linking with Premier League side AFC Bournemouth in 2015, Federici eventually agreed to terms with Stoke City in the Championship.
Wearing the gloves for the U/23’s national side at the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship, Federici has amassed 16 national caps for the Socceroos since debuting against Uruguay in June 2007. The NSW south-coast product would also go on to represent Australia at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
One of the most well remarked goalkeepers in the A-League 2020/21 season, Federici’s knowledge and experience will not be lost to the game, with the keeper continuing to link with the Bulls in some capacity in the future.
Looking back on his career, Federici said “I have been so fortunate to have the career I’ve had. While I would’ve love to lead the Bulls this season, my body is in a different position and cannot continue. Through my journey I have played with wonderful coaches, players and clubs and I’m grateful that I got to finish my career on my home turf.
“I am honoured to have been able to represent Australia and my time with the national team will stay fondly in my memories forever. For now, my focus is to work on recovery, but I look forward to what the game has in store for me going forward.”
Macarthur FC Head Coach Ante Milicic said it’s been an honour having Adam be part of the club from the beginning.
“We’re very thankful for Adam joining us in our inaugural season. The fact that we could attract one of the best Australian goalkeepers was a great honour. To have someone of his calibre and experience in our inaugural season was a privilege.
“He was to be our captain this season but unfortunately due to injuries he has decided to retire.
“Adam has been an outstanding leader in the club, and we thank him for all his efforts. He has played a large role in shaping the club’s values and culture from the beginning and I am extremely proud of his journey so far with the Bulls.
“He has been a great role model for the younger players in the squad, having shared his experience and knowledge with them. It’s a sad day for Bulls fans knowing Adam won’t be part of the squad this season, but as a club we will help and support him through his rehab and continue the relationship built to extend in some way in the future.”
