Tara Murray
Spanish import Iker Guarrotxena is set to provide an extra attacking option for Western United.
United announced the signing of Guarrotxena on Thursday ahead of their second round match against Melbourne City.
Guarrotxena has already started training with the club. He is the club’s second Spanish import with Víctor Sánchez having made his debut in round one.
Guarrotxena is an attacking midfielder and has spent the majority of his professional career in the Spanish second tier, Segunda División.
Guarrotxena said he is looking forward to hopefully making an impact in United’s front third.
“I’m happy to finally be here,” Guarrotxena said.
“I have a big season in front of me. I have motivation because I think this is a good opportunity for me to grow with the club, so I’m happy.
“My first target is to have a good season with the club, with the team, and of course, my personal target is to score goals.
“I’m trying hard these next few weeks and I’m focused to perform and try to help the team.”
Guarrotxena joins a host of Spaniards who have signed for A-League clubs this season.
He has already spoken with a few of his fellow countrymen about Australia and the A-League prior to signing with the green and black.
“I spoke with them and always spoke well about Australia, because they said the football is good.
“[In Australia] it is the kind of football that we can adapt well to, so I think for me as well I can adapt well to this style.
“I can score goals, I can help the team and I think I’m a prepared player for this style of football.”
Western United general manager of football, Ante Kovacevic believes Guarrotxena will add both depth and quality to an already solid squad.
“We are excited to have added Iker to the squad, to give the team another attacking weapon, and further competition to starting spots,” Kovacevic said.
“Iker is a livewire on the field and will bring a lot of energy and intensity to our team, and hopefully goals and goal scoring opportunities.
“We look forward to seeing him in the green and black on matchday.”
