Long-time Melbourne City youth captain Harry Politidis has been elevated to the senior squad after signing a one-year deal.
The Greek Australian has been with the club since he was 15 years old in 2017 and has been captain of the NPL team for the last two seasons.
Politidis finally made his senior debut this past weekend against Sydney FC, entering the pitch at the 78th minute.
Before Sunday he had been a substitute on multiple occasions this season in the Australia Cup and AFC Champions League.
The full-back has now seen his patience and work ethic rewarded, especially working hard to overcome injury in recent years.
Something that Director of Football Michael Petrillo is highly impressed with.
“It’s really pleasing to see Harry receive his first professional contract… he has shown remarkable resilience, determination and positivity to work even harder after each setback,” he said in a statement from Melbourne City.
“His story is a great example to our younger players that with the right attitude and perseverance, you can achieve your goals at this Club.”
Rado Vidosic’s squad will now see further depth with the addition of this left-sided player who can play full-back and on the wing.
Politidis says it’s a dream come true and he hopes to repay the faith put in him by City.
“It’s an incredible feeling and it’s been a day that I’ve been dreaming about for a long time,” he said.
“The Club and staff have been great in supporting me throughout a number of injuries and setbacks, and I thank them for trusting me and now offering me an opportunity to continue fulfilling my dream.
“Between playing our first AFC Champions League campaign on home soil and competing for more silverware in the A-League, it’s an exciting time for myself and City fans.
“I’m hoping to earn as many minutes as I can and repay the faith the club has given me. I want to prove myself as a player that can play for this team consistently and contribute to providing this great Club continued success,” Politidis said in the Melbourne City statement.
