‘Kiwi Messi’ returns to Victory
All Whites midfielder Marco Rojas is back for his third stint with Melbourne Victory in the A-League.
The Victory confirmed the 28-year-old former Wellington Phoenix star’s signing yesterday in a deal that will take him through to the end of the 2021-22 season.
In between his European stints, the latest with SønderjyskE in the Danish Superliga, Rojas played 75 A-League games for the Victory and scored 28 goals, winning the Johnny Warren Medal for the league’s outstanding player in 2013.
Now off contract with SønderjyskE, Rojas rejected an offer from Victory’s crosstown rivals Melbourne City, the Herald Sun reported, to rejoin his old club.
Dubbed the ‘Kiwi Messi’, Rojas shot to prominence with the Phoenix in the 2010-11 season and crossed the Tasman to join the Melbourne powerhouses the following season.
His return to Wellington for the Victory’s visit on March 15 will add further spice to an already much-anticipated contest.
The 41-cap New Zealand international will add to the attacking options, which include captain Ola Toivonen, Andrew Nabbout and Robbie Kruse, the club said.
‘‘We know Marco is a talented player. He is a goal scorer, he will strengthen our side and help us play the attacking football our members and fans expect,’’ coach Carlos Salvachua said.
Rojas said Melbourne Victory hold a special place in his heart.
‘‘I’m really looking forward to getting back out there and playing in front of the fans again because they really do create a special atmosphere.’’