The Wellington Phoenix further bolstered the men’s squad before the registration window closed last night.
The Phoenix signed experienced playmaker Ramy Najjarine for the upcoming Isuzu UTE A-League season, with the final paperwork completed with just hours remaining on deadline day.
Najjarine, 25, has played more than 100 matches in the A-League and represented Australia at age-group level before making his senior bow for Lebanon last month.
Phoenix head coach Giancarlo Italiano has been an admirer of Najjarine’s game since he made his debut for Melbourne City as an 18-year-old.
“I was a big fan of him at Wanderers as well and I feel he’s a really good talented pocket player,” Italiano said.
“Wherever he has gone he hasn’t really played in the position that he’s best suited.
“Here he’ll be more of a central focus as a 10 and someone that we can build around.”
Najjarine is the second men’s signing the Phoenix confirmed on the final day of the registration window, with Dan Edwards joining the club from National Premier Leagues (NPL) Victoria premiers Avondale FC, and finalises Italiano’s squad.
“I’m very happy. We’ve got a lot of depth now, we’ve got a lot of competition for spots, and I think we’re in a very healthy spot at the moment.”
Ramy Najjarine will join up with his new teammates on Wednesday, little over a month out from the men’s season opener against Perth Glory.
“I’m excited to have signed with the Phoenix and I can’t wait to get started,” Najjarine said.
“After speaking to the boss he convinced me it was the right move.
“Chief’s got belief in me. When he called telling me he wants to play me as a 10 I was even more excited to prove to everyone else why I should be playing that position.
“That’s where I’m best and where I can do my stuff.
“I’m very attack minded. I like to create opportunities for myself and my teammates and hopefully I can bring a lot of success to the club.”
He was part of the Western United side that rose from second to bottom in 2023-24 to third last season, but he was limited to 18 appearances primarily as a substitute.
“It was a successful season and I was happy to be part of it. I think it will set me up for the future.
“But for myself I’ve got a lot to prove. I’ve been wanting to have a good run of starts in the A-League for a while now and I think this is the best environment for me.
“I’ve been a bit unlucky with my body but right now I’m feeling the best I ever have so I’m excited to join the Phoenix.”
Ramy Najjarine will wear the no. 20 shirt for the Wellington Phoenix and is the 24th and final men’s player contracted to the club before the start of the 2024-25 Isuzu UTE A-League.
