Western Sydney Wanderers FC are pleased to announce the return of foundation player and AFC Asian Champions League winner Labinot Haliti as one of the club’s Hyundai A-League assistant coaches.
Haliti returns to the club for the very first time since his playing days, having had an extensive career that saw him feature in over 160 matches during a decade-long stint in the Hyundai A-League.
The experienced forward has recently been at the helm of the Newcastle Jets’ Foxtel Y-League team where he earned his FIFA A Coaching Licence.
A Wanderers Premiers Plate and AFC Champions League winner, Haliti will work alongside head coach Markus Babbel and assistant coach Jean-Paul de Marigny this upcoming Hyundai A-League season.
Western Sydney Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas said he was delighted by the return of foundation player Labinot Haliti to the club.
“It is great to have another one of our foundation players playing a role in the future of the club,” said Tsatsimas.
“Haliti was a fantastic player during his time at the club and played an instrumental role in the club’s early success.
“We know that the passion and love for this club that he exhibited during his playing days here will shine through in his coaching.”
Haliti said he was proud to return to the club that he holds very close to his heart.
“It is a dream come true to return to the Wanderers. Everything feels so new at the moment, but it also feels like I’ve never left the building,” said Haliti.
“I’m planning to bring a lot of passion and energy to the club, I love what I do and I’m one of the very lucky ones to be part of a club who have given me everything.
“I know what it means to wear the badge and I’m looking to pass on that expectation to this group of Wanderers. Belief, hard work and a never give up attitude – that’s what the community, members and fans want.
“I look forward to applying what I’ve learnt in the last 18 months with Markus Babbel and JP (Jean-Paul de Marigny).”
