Perth Glory is delighted to announce the signing of Tomislav Mrcela.
The Perth-born 195cm centre-back has put pen to paper on a two-year-deal after receiving interest from a number of clubs.
Mrcela is another very experienced defender added to the squad following his move from South Korean top flight side Jeonnam Dragons, where he made 49 appearances.
The 27-year-old made the move to Croatia with his family in 1996 before joining the RNK Split Academy side in 2001.
The West Australian would go on to spend eight years in Split, where he would gain invaluable experience as a youth team captain, before making the transition to First Team football in the Croatian lower leagues.
Following a season each at Imotski (loan), Mosor, Hrvatski Dragovoljac and two seasons with Zagreb-based side Lokomotiva, where he gained Europa League experience with the top division side, Mrcela then decided it was time for a change in 2016 as he signed for K-League outfit Jeonnam Dragons.
Mrcela has been a regular fixture in the heart of the defence for the Dragons since 2016 with his physical presence and aerial prowess proving a great asset for the side.
On the international front, Mrcela has been on the cusp of a Socceroos debut since gaining his first call-up to the squad in 2015 by Ange Postecoglou.
Mrcela insists he’s excited to be back in Perth and was quick to emphasise the influence of Tony Popovic in bringing him to the club.
“I’m a defender and Popovic was a World Class defender in his day. He was in the Socceroos and in the Premier League, so I can learn a lot from him,” he said.
“Popovic is a winner, we all know that, and I want to win things for this club and that’s why I’m here, for that challenge.
“I can’t wait to play in front of my friends and family here, hopefully there will be a few members added to the club now.”
Newly appointed Assistant Coach Hayden Foxe is extremely pleased to have secured Mrcela’s services insisting his best years are ahead of him.
“We’ve signed him at the prime time of his career,” Foxe said.
“He’s a fantastic professional who works extremely hard and is greatly experienced having played in Europe for over a decade.”
Chief Executive Officer Tony Pignata echoed Foxe’s thoughts.
“The club is really excited to have Tomislav here as we begin our new direction. We can’t wait to see him in Glory colours next season,” Pignata said.
Further player announcements are expected in the very near future.
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