Perth Glory is delighted to confirm the signing of left-sided Belgian defender Anas Hamzaoui who has penned a two-year deal with the club.
A former Belgium Under-18 international, Hamzaoui was on the books at both Anderlecht and Club Brugge as a junior.
He went on to feature regularly in the Challenger Pro League, making more than 50 appearances for Brussels-based side, Union Saint-Gilloise, whom he helped win promotion back to the top flight in 2020/21.
After four seasons with Union, Glory’s latest recruit linked up with Royal Excelsior Virton before signing for another Belgian side, RAAL La Louviere, in 2022.
The 27-year-old is now looking forward to making an impact in the Isuzu UTE A-League.
“When I was contacted by a club like Perth Glory, I was immediately open to a new challenge and I’m really excited about it,” he said.
“I had a really good feeling when I saw the club.
“I hope we will achieve great things this season and I will certainly be working hard to make that happen.”
Glory Football Director Stan Lazaridis, meanwhile, believes that Hamzaoui will have a vital role to play in the upcoming ALM campaign.
“Anas could be the biggest surprise package among all the players that we’re bringing in,” he said.
“For me, his style is reminiscent of the French World Cup winner Bixente Lizarazu.
“He has a great engine for getting up and down and a really cultured left foot with which he provides excellent delivery into the box.
“It’s difficult to find quality left-backs and acquiring the services of someone like Anas was one of my top priorities.
“I’m confident that he will be a really important addition to the squad and a big hit with our Members and fans.”
The following players are now under contract for 2024/25: Oli Sail, Cameron Cook, Robbie Cook, Josh Risdon, Riley Warland, Anas Hamzaoui, Kaelan Majekodunmi, Andriano Lebib, Zach Lisolajski, Jacob Muir, Luke Bodnar, Jarrod Carluccio, Trent Ostler, Mustafa Amini, Brandon O’Neill, Jaylan Pearman, Khoa Ngo, Adam Zimarino, Adam Taggart, David Williams.
Contract negotiations are ongoing with a number of other first-team squad members and further announcements will be made shortly, along with details of new player signings.
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