Adelaide United skipper Stefan Mauk says he must leave the Reds to “test” himself in Japan.
Mauk will play his final game for Adelaide in Saturday’s Pride Game against the Central Coast Mariners at Coopers Stadium before moving to Japanese second division club Fagiano Okayama, where he will be a teammate of Socceroos striker Mitch Duke.
“Being from Adelaide, it was a very tough decision to leave my hometown club and a great group of boys,” the 26-year-old midfielder said.
“The club made it clear that they wanted to keep me, but this opportunity to test myself in Japan, while still xjmtzywin the prime of my career, is something I feel I need to do.
“Captaining this team has been a tremendous honour and … I wish the squad nothing but the best for the remainder of the season.”
Saturday’s match will be Mauk’s 132nd A-League appearance in a career that has also included stints with Melbourne Heart, Melbourne City and Brisbane Roar.
Mauk’s move has been mooted for several weeks, but a visa delay kept Mauk in the A-League longer than expected.
Adelaide United coach Carl Veart said: “We’ve known for a while this move for Stefan was likely, but he has remained an absolute professional and led our squad remarkably.
“The way he has carried himself and still given 110 per cent for this team has been exceptional and shows you the type of character Stefan is.
“On behalf of everyone at Adelaide United, I want to thank Stefan for how he has represented the club and want him to know that he will always be welcomed back.
“We wish him all the best as he begins a new footballing chapter in Japan.”
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