Wanderers captain Borrello doubtful for Sydney derby with muscle injury

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 09:32 · Archive

Western Sydney Wanderers' new captain Brandon Borrello is unlikely to play against Sydney FC on Friday due to a muscle injury.

Western Sydney Wanderers' newly appointed captain Brandon Borrello is in doubt for the Sydney derby against Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium on Friday night, with a muscle injury making his participation unlikely. The 31-year-old attacker, a Socceroo who was announced as skipper for the 2026-27 season, was named in the extended 20-man squad on Thursday, though two players will be omitted from the final squad.

In better news for the Wanderers, returning player Nicolas Milanovic is expected to feature despite concerns over a quad problem. Borrello's likely absence is far from ideal for a side aiming to make a strong start after a disastrous 2025-26 campaign in which they finished last. Coach Ufuk Talay said Borrello had 'been leading from the front since day one of pre-season' and was 'probably one of our most experienced players'.

If Borrello is unavailable, one of the club's two new vice-captains—defenders Alex Gersbach and German Ferreyra—will wear the armband. Ferreyra, who joined from Melbourne City in the off-season, is preparing for his first Sydney derby and said the atmosphere would be 'a lot crazier' than the Melbourne derby he experienced at City.

Wanderers captain Borrello doubtful for Sydney derby with muscle injury — Image: Perth Now

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How it is being reported

Wanderers suffer major blow as new captain Brandon Borrello faces Sydney derby absenceThe Wanderers’ season has hit an early snag, with new skipper Brandon Borrello in doubt for the Sydney derby.Perth Now · 15 Oct, 09:05
Wanderers suffer major blow as new captain Brandon Borrello faces Sydney derby absenceThe Wanderers’ season has hit an early snag, with new skipper Brandon Borrello in doubt for the Sydney derby.The West Australian · 15 Oct, 09:05

In this story: Brandon Borrello · Western Sydney Wanderers · Sydney FC · Nicolas Milanovic · Ufuk Talay · Alex Gersbach · German Ferreyra

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