The urge to play under the City Football Group, along with the lure of family, allowed Jamie Maclaren to clinch a return to the prestigious A-League after signing a contract with Melbourne City. The Socceroos striker, who is currently 25 years old, inked a long-term contract that will elevate him to marquee during the next season. He that he was extremely flattered by Melbourne City’s contract offer to enjoy the game in his home town. Furthermore, he stated that he merely wants to enjoy the game of football again.
Jamie Maclaren As A Footballer
Since he decided to leave Brisbane Roar following an impressive 20-goal season at the end of 2017, the footballer from Melbourne has experienced half-starts while playing for the German football club Darmstadt at his Scottish home Hibernian. With Neil Lennon recently sacked by Hibernian within the last week, Maclaren decided to avoid his second adventure overseas and instead made a journey back home.
This has attracted criticism from both commentators and beloved fans around the world who all believe that he should have stayed in Europe and stuck it out. However, Maclaren has given both fans and commentators short explanation.
Jamie Maclaren’s Comments On His Deal
“I initially left home when I was only 15 years old and haven’t lived with my family for more than 11 years,” Maclaren stated. “Although the journey hasn’t been an easy one, I still enjoyed the journey and wouldn’t change it for anything. I’ve managed to see Germany, Brisbane, and Perth during my adventures. Even though I’m 25 at the moment, I’ve heard and seen enough fans that criticise my choices.”
He lamented that, “While they are looking out for themselves, I am doing exactly the same by looking out for myself. Melbourne City provided a phenomenal deal, and I’ve always had the urge to play for Melbourne since I was a kid and it’s always been one of my biggest dreams to enjoy the game in front of my family. Most people believe that Europe is considered the holy grail when it comes to football. However, I believe that playing football on any level is fantastic.”
Maclaren’s sister, who currently works for Melbourne Victory, is expecting for the first time and is due to in July to give birth. “Is it really worth missing out on such an experience?” Maclaren stated. Once the opportunity presented itself to play at home for Melbourne City, I had to take it cause it won’t happen again if I don’t.”
Melbourne City has one request from Maclaren to get a return on their latest investment, and that’s scoring goals. However, Maclaren is quite confident that he can deliver what is required. “Melbourne City merely wants a decent striker that will hang around the 18-yard box and successfully provide the crosses to accumulate goals,” Maclaren stated. “That’s exactly what I do and I cannot wait to show Melbourne City what I’m made of.”