Sydney FC face Talay in season-opening derby

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 04:02 · Archive

Sydney FC opens the A-League Men season against Western Sydney, managed by former Sydney coach Ufuk Talay.

Sydney FC opens the A-League Men season against Western Sydney on Friday night at Allianz Stadium. The fixture carries personal significance for Sydney's players because their new opponents are managed by Ufuk Talay, who left the Sky Blues last March to sign a two-year deal with the Wanderers.

Talay's departure was the culmination of growing discontent among Sydney fans over his style of play, the club's results and his overseas recruits. The club's hierarchy declined to activate a contract clause that would have extended his tenure through the 2026-27 season.

Sydney defender Jordan Courtney-Perkins told media that some squad members want to prove themselves to Talay after feeling they deserved more playing time under his management. Talay acknowledged at his own press conference that he may face hostility from sections of Sydney's support, saying 'That's all part of the game at the end of the day' and expressing hope that the Wanderers can replicate the success he had with Sydney.

How it is being reported

• Plenty to prove as 'feisty' derby kicks off ALM seasonNot only a derby match for city bragging rights, the season-opening A-League Men face-off between Sydney FC and the Wanderers is a chance to settle some scores.Perth Now · 15 Oct, 03:32
• Plenty to prove as 'feisty' derby kicks off ALM seasonNot only a derby match for city bragging rights, the season-opening A-League Men face-off between Sydney FC and the Wanderers is a chance to settle some scores.The West Australian · 15 Oct, 03:32

In this story: Sydney FC · Western Sydney · Ufuk Talay · Jordan Courtney-Perkins · Allianz Stadium

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