Socceroos winger Awer Mabil has labelled his move to Spain as a “dream come true”, after signing a four-year contract with Cadiz.
Mabil is one of the best feel-good stories to come out of Australian football in recent years, and after grafting away in the Danish, Portuguese and Turkish leagues, has been rewarded with a move to one of the ‘big five’ nations.
The 26-year-old, who dedicated his penalty against Peru to his adopted homeland of Australia, has signed with Cadiz, joining Mat Ryan in the Spanish top flight – going up against the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona.
READ MORE: Late blunder duds QLD as Blues win a belter
READ MORE: ‘Panicking’ Aussie teen’s history-making win
READ MORE: Swimmer saved from drowning by her coach at World Championships
ULTIMATE GUIDE: State of Origin Game II
“I’m very happy to join Cadiz and play in La Liga,” Mabil said.
“It is a dream come true for me and my family.
“I am looking forward to meeting everyone soon and beginning the hard work to bring joy and success to our fans.”
Cadiz avoided relegation by the skin of its teeth in the season just passed, finishing in 17th place, one point and one place above Granada, who went down along with Levante and Alaves.
The latter was the final Spanish club of John Aloisi, who was the last outfield player to ply his trade in La Liga before Mabil – way back in 2006.
“La Liga’s one of the best leagues in the world and obviously got some of the best teams in the world in Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico,” Mabil told reporters on Friday.
“I never could have imagined playing against them and now it’s like a reality.”
The news of Mabil’s signing came as the latest FIFA world rankings were announced, with Australia climbing three spots to move from 42nd to 39th.
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!
