The Wellington Phoenix say they are disappointed their veteran striker Kosta Barbarouses has decided to cut short his successful third spell at the club.
The All Whites forward, 35, has turned down his option of a contract extension and has informed the club he intends to play elsewhere next season. A-League experts believe Barbarouses is likely heading to Melbourne.
Barbarouses enjoyed a renaissance at the Phoenix and had two of the best years of his decorated career under head coach Giancarlo Italiano, scoring 23 goals in 54 A-League matches.
Earlier this month he became the club’s first three-time winner of the men’s player of the year award, on top of being voted the team’s best by his teammates, club members and media, while also collecting the men’s golden boot and goal of the year awards.
Phoenix director of football Shaun Gill is convinced the club did all it could to keep hold of Barbarouses.
“Kosta has had two of the best seasons of his career at the Phoenix and we believed he was in the best place to secure selection in the All Whites’ World Cup squad,” Gill said.
“In recognition of his performances over the past two seasons we tabled what we believed was a very competitive contract offer, especially for a player of Kosta’s age.
“We’re disappointed he’s turned down our contract extension, but we respect his decision and thank him for all of his contributions to the club.”
The four-time A-League champion signed off by scoring the match-winner in Wellington’s Australia Cup playoff against Brisbane Roar in Darwin last week.
“The three years I’ve spent with the Phoenix in my home town have been very special to me,” Barbarouses said. “I’m grateful to the fans, the squad and many of the staff members for everything.
“The decision to leave has been a very difficult one to make and I wish the Phoenix all the best in the future.”
The Wellington Phoenix currently have 18 men’s players contracted for the 2025-26 season.
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