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Auckland FC sign OlyRoos winger Marlee Francois
Logan Swinkels • January 9th, 2025 10:24 am
Auckland FC have bolstered their attack on the wing with the signing of 22-year-old Marlee Francois.
The Australian-born winger most recently played for EFL Championship club Bristol City, including two FA Cup appearances with one against Premier League heavyweights Manchester City. Francois got his start from the youth academies at Bristol (2019-21) and Fulham (2013-19).
He has also played for the OlyRoos, Australia's under-23 side, including a goal scored in a 2-0 win over Mexico's U23 side in June 2023.
According to Auckland FC coach Steve Corica, Francois' playing style primarily on the left wing fits the profile they were searching for in a recruit.
“He’s young, got a lot of pace, a lot of potential, and likes playing with the ball at his feet. He can also play of either side of the midfield so provides us with options,” Corica said in a statement.
“The club have done well to bring him here and sell him the vision of Auckland and what we as a club and city can offer.”
Francois had been without a club since July last year after being released by Bristol City, with his time at the club curtailed by injury. It means the right-footed attacker is able to join the Black Knights ahead of January 16's official transfer window.
“Coming to Auckland offers me a new opportunity and a fresh start. They’re a club in the ascendancy and currently top of league. I’m here to learn, to play and to further develop my career,” Francois said.
“I’m keen to meet my new teammates and discover what makes this club so special.”
He is expected to join Auckland FC when his new teammates return from this week's away trip to face Perth Glory, and will likely be available to play their next home game against Melbourne City on January 18.
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