Melbourne Victory Head Coach, Marco Kurz has declared that fans should be excited by the new-look squad ahead of the club’s Round 1 clash this Saturday against Melbourne City.
Kurz has been busy recruiting players and building his squad for the season ahead since coming aboard Victory in June this year.
There have been more than 10 changes to the squad since last season alone, and despite the mass change, the boss is looking forward to debuting a new-look Victory this weekend.
“A lot of players left our club after the last season,” said Kurz.
“It was important for us to sign quality players, and also those who are passionate and fit the identification of the club. Not only was the quality of players our focus, but also the personality.
“We are happy with our signings. I think the players match the club well and the improvement needed to be a strong team is on the right track.
“The fans should look out for the whole team – the team is the star!”
Although he was disappointed with the club’s early exit in the FFA Cup, Kurz has been impressed by the club’s performances in pre-season friendlies.
However, he still sees much room for improvement ahead of the beginning of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 season.
“We are not happy that we dropped out of the FFA Cup,” said Kurz.
“The Cup is always a good opportunity to have strong opponents in an official game, which is different to friendly games.
“The results and the improvement of the last friendly games were positive, but we need to improve much more to be well prepared for the first round against City.”
As for the new faces, who Kurz speaks very highly of, they not only provide an exciting prospect for the club but also create greater competition for a spot in the starting XI.
“Hoogland is a very experienced player from Germany,” said Kurz.
“He can organise a back four line, is strong in the duals and we are happy to have Tim in our squad.
“Dobras is a talented young player, he’s technically strong with a good view for the final pass. He can improve to a be a very good player for Melbourne Victory.
“Poulsen is a leader, he can dictate the rhythm in the midfield and is also very strong at set pieces.
“Traore – everybody knows him from the last time he was playing here. He is a strong full back, but he needs time to get match fitness back after an injury.
“Each player in the team has been motivated, trained and worked hard and impressed us coaches, and now it is time for the players to fight for a starting position and a place in the squad.”
