EXCLUSIVE: Why Fabio Gomes ignored interest in Asia to sign with Sydney FC – as the striker looks to light up the A-League
- Fabio Gomes is emerging as Sydney FC’s x-factor this season
- Scored a brace in the recent Australia Cup final against Brisbane
- Has played professionally in Brazil, Portugal, Japan and the US
Star A-League recruit Fabio Gomes has revealed why he chose Sydney FC as the next chapter in his football journey, rather than pursuing numerous lucrative offers in Asia.
The towering striker – who announced himself to Sky Blues fans earlier this month with a brace against Brisbane Roar in the Australia Cup final – has settled in well in Harbor City and is ready to make his mark on the competition.
Gomes will experience his first ‘Big Blue’ against Melbourne Victory on Saturday evening – and the well-traveled forward can’t wait to turn on the style again at Allianz Stadium.
“Everyone was so welcoming, from the coach (Steve Corica) to my teammates and the fans,” the Brazilian told Daily Mail Australia.
“I did my research, Sydney FC is a big club and (former teammate and clubmate) Bobo couldn’t speak highly enough since his time here.
Fabio Gomes has revealed why he chose Sydney FC as the next chapter in his football journey instead of pursuing numerous lucrative offers in Asia
The towering striker announced himself to Sky Blues fans earlier this month with a brace against Brisbane Roar in the Australia Cup final
‘I had offers in Japan, Korea and Qatar… but I wanted to experience life in Australia.’
Gomes’ football CV is impressive.
He played his youth football with Brazilian clubs Grêmio Osasco and Nacional, before moving on to the likes of Audax and Oeste.
The next step was a move to Albirex Niigata in Japan three years ago, before the New York Red Bulls in MLS called 2021.
Last year the 26-year-old played for Atlético Mineiro in Brazil, with moves to Vasco da Gama, Paços de Ferreira and Juventude.
He opted to end his spell with Juventude last month, and Sydney FC were the big winners.
Gomes received offers in Japan, Korea and Qatar… but wanted to experience life in Australia (pictured, on Bondi Beach)
Despite not speaking English, Gomes is a popular and valued member of the Corica squad. His double against the Roar to secure silverware early in the season was a dream introduction to football on the local coast.
Gomes also had a message for Sky Blues fans: he is all in.
“My family is coming out in a few weeks and I’m excited about that,” he said.
“Football has taken me to a lot of places, and Australia has been a lot of fun so far.
‘I live near our training base (Macquarie University) and I will stay there… as much as I love Bondi, I’m here to play football, that’s my focus.’