Melbourne City FC can confirm it has signed Spanish forward Markel Susaeta for the remainder of the 2019/20 Hyundai A-League season.
The 32-year-old who has over 500 appearances for Spanish La Liga side Athletic Bilbao comes to the Club after a stint at Japanese powerhouse Gamba Osaka.
The forward began his professional career as an Athletic Bilbao academy product, making his first senior appearance for CD Basconia before returning to Bilbao to build a decorated career for the Rojiblancos which included over 60 continental European appearances, including the Europa League Final in 2011/12.
Susaeta also represented Spain in 2012, called up to Vincente Del Bosque’s side for a friendly against Panama as well as representing his native Basque Country.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo said Susaeta’s experience will be an invaluable asset to the side for the rest of the season.
“We’re incredibly pleased to have a player like Markel at Melbourne City,” Petrillo said.
“Markel is a player that is well suited to the style of game we have implemented under Erick and a player who will add flair, potency and experience to our front third.
“We have been tracking Markel for quite some time now so to be able to get him into the squad is testament to the Club and its ability to attract a player of Markel’s pedigree.”
“His outstanding record at Athletic Bilbao speaks for itself and his experience in La Liga and Europe, will lift the whole squad as we look to continue our push towards the latter stages of the season.”
Commenting on his arrival, Susaeta said:
“I’m excited to be joining Melbourne City for the rest of the season and can’t wait to get started in Australia,” he said.
“I’m hoping I can help the group play the exciting, attacking football the Club prides itself on and achieve the success the group has set out at the start of the season.”
Susaeta is Melbourne City’s first signing of the January transfer period and will be available for selection ahead of Saturdays clash with Newcastle pending visa approval.
