City’s Youth system produced another star in the making this season, with Nathaniel Atkinson having a superb break-out season. We take a look at the key moments in his 2017/18 A-League campaign.
The first of many
Atkinson’s debut came in City’s 1-0 win over Central Coast Mariners in Round 10 at AAMI Park. Manny Muscat’s suspension saw a position at right-back open up and after a stand-out performance in City Youth’s 9-2 win over Melbourne Victory the week before, the youngster was given his chance by Head Coach Warren Joyce.
It was a debut to remember for the 18-year-old, who was one of City’s best working tirelessly on the right-wing and earning himself a position in the senior squad for the remainder of the season.
It was an impressive @ALeague debut from this young Padawan #StarWarsTheLastJedi #StarWarsRound pic.twitter.com/yDt3evMjt0
— Melbourne City FC (@MelbourneCity) December 10, 2017
Astonishing assist
Atkinson’s season produced several highlights, but if you were to pick one moment that stands out most, it’s hard to beat his delightful assist against Western Sydney Wanderers on New Year’s Day at ANZ Stadium.
The 18-year-old played a perfectly weighted ball from the right wing that beat both the Wanderers defence and goalkeeper to find Ross McCormack at the back post for the easiest of tap-ins.
Four matches into his @ALeague career, Nathaniel Atkinson has settled nicely into senior football! pic.twitter.com/2npmBIwkGR
— Melbourne City FC (@MelbourneCity) January 3, 2018
Melbourne Derby
Atkinson first Melbourne Derby was a highlight for the youngster in his debut season. Despite City ultimately falling short against their cross-town rivals, the right-back thrived under the pressure and expectation that comes with a Derby and savoured every moment of the match.
Here to stay
Melbourne City FC was pleased to announce that Atkinson signed a contract extension in January, which will see the young star remain at the Club until the end of the 2019/20 season.
The City youth system prodigy signed a two-year deal following an impressive start to his senior career in the A-League.
It was a 'dream come true' for Nathaniel Atkinson this season but the young defender says the work is only getting stated for him.
Full interview ? https://t.co/JUE0ArlPQW pic.twitter.com/hG7E1HhL4R
— Melbourne City FC (@MelbourneCity) May 9, 2018
