Melbourne Victory can confirm that Besart Berisha, the Hyundai A-League’s all-time leading goal scorer, has departed the club to pursue an overseas opportunity.
Berisha joined Victory in 2014 from Brisbane Roar and played an integral part in the club’s success during his four-year stint in Melbourne.
He leaves the club after winning two Hyundai A-League Championships, one Premiers Plate, one FFA Cup and four Victory Golden Boots.
“I have very mixed emotions right now because I had an amazing time at Victory and in Australia,” Berisha said.
“It’s a little bit sad but in the end it’s the right decision for me to move on at this time.
“I have to thank the fans for always supporting me, not just in the good times but also in the difficult moments, I will always be grateful.
“I would also like to thank Kevin and all the coaching staff, you always trusted me and backed me up.
“A big thanks goes to the players who helped me to achieve so much in Australia.
“To the Chairman and the Board, without your support we would not have been able to achieve so much success.”
Head Coach Kevin Muscat, who brought Berisha to Melbourne as one of his first signings, paid tribute to the striker’s impact on the club.
“Besart will always be remembered as one of the greatest players to wear the Victory jersey,” Muscat said.
“His contribution, not only to our club, but to the entire competition has been immense and his record speaks for itself.
“We are disappointed to be losing a player of Besart’s quality, you could always count on him to step up and deliver in the big games.
“However, we understand and respect his desire to tackle a new challenge and certainly wish him all the best.”
Berisha scored 86 goals for Victory in 137 games for the club.
