South Melbourne FC is pleased to announce the signing of Stefan Zinni from Melbourne City for the 2017 NPL Victoria season.
In his three seasons with City, Zinni took part in four senior matches throughout the A-League and FFA Cup competitions, whilst mainly featuring in their youth and NPL team. Throughout this period, the quick winger managed seven goals and provided a threat every time he went forward.
However, Zinni is remembered around South for his commitment to the club through the SMFC Youth Program. This includes previously playing as a South Junior for eleven seasons, as well as also playing a lead role in our Under 20s in 2014 prior to his A-League move.
The signing of the dynamic 20-year-old ensures that Chris Taylor has another attacking option for the 2017 season, where he is expected to add some speed and quality down the right-hand side of the park. He’s also following in the footsteps of his father, possessing similar traits that Andrew Zinni had when playing NSL football for Brunswick Juventus and Preston as well as the Socceroos.
Speaking to smfc.com.au, Zinni was excited to return home. “There is no other way to put it, I’m happy to be home and at a club that has played a large part in my life for over a decade. While I enjoyed my time in the A-League and thank City for the opportunity, there is something exciting about putting on the South shirt and the badge that is familiar with most of my football to date. I can’t wait to get started and hopefully I will be able to add something different to the team. My dream was always to be a South senior player, so to have that chance is extremely exciting.”
Football Director Nicholas Maikousis also shared Zinni’s excitement. “Stefan is a South boy, who has made his way through our ranks and into our Senior Squad. He commenced his football at the club in the Under 8’s, so it’s fantastic to see products of our youth setup beginning to make their way into the first team and forming a large part of our future. We wish him all the best for 2017 and beyond.”
We’d like to welcome Stefan back home to Lakeside Stadium and look forward to seeing him in a senior shirt throughout the season.