Nicolas Milanovic is back in Western Sydney. The 24-year-old winger has been sold back to the Western Sydney Wanderers after a difficult season with Scottish Premiership club Aberdeen, where he played 24 matches without scoring and started only 10 of them.
Milanovic won the Johnny Warren Medal, awarded to the A-League's player of the year, during his previous time with the Wanderers. He then moved to Aberdeen looking for a challenge at a higher level. The move did not go as planned.
According to Yahoo Sports, Milanovic said the decision to return felt clear.
"This club has always meant a lot to me and I'm incredibly proud to be back representing Western Sydney," he said. "The opportunity to play overseas challenged me in a lot of ways and helped me grow as a player, and as a person. I'll bring those experiences back with me."
Western Sydney finished bottom of the 12-team A-League table last season, a steep drop from their fourth-place finish two seasons ago when Milanovic won the league's top individual honor. The club described him as a "hometown hero" on his return.
Milanovic acknowledged the state of the club but expressed confidence in what is being built.
"I know what this club is building and I want to be part of it," he said. "We have a real talented group, a passionate supporter base and a real opportunity to achieve something special together."
Head coach Ufuk Talay welcomed the signing and made clear what he expects from the player. "Nic's an exciting player who brings energy, power and quality in the final third," Talay said. "He's someone who can create and score goals and he is a fantastic addition to the squad we are building."
Talay also addressed what he sees as the key to getting Milanovic back to his best. "His experience overseas will help him, but for me it's about making sure he enjoys his football again. When Nic is playing with confidence and freedom, he's one of the best players in the competition."
The Wanderers already have Scotland international Ryan Fraser on the opposite wing. With Milanovic back on one side and Fraser on the other, the club is rebuilding its attack ahead of the coming A-League season.
