The 19-year-old arrived in the UK on Wednesday to finalise the terms of the transfer. One of the brightest young talents to have emerged from Australian football in recent years, Arzani became the youngest ever player to be named in a World Cup squad for the Australia national team when he travelled to Russia this summer. He was also the youngest player in the tournament, and came on as a substitute in the latter stages of the Socceroos group stage game against France.
Arzani has been a name on the lips of Australian football fans for a few seasons now. After joining Melbourne City in 2016, the following 2017-18 A-League campaign became his breakthrough season, where his exciting attacking play saw him win a host of admirers, culminating in him being named the league’s Young Footballer of the Year award. He also picked up the Harry Kewell medal for the best U23 player in Australia.
The transfer of Arzani between Melbourne and Manchester is also an important one for the City Football Group, Managing Director of Global Football, Brian Marwood, was delighted to see Arzani make the move within the group.
Marwood said: “In a short period of time, Daniel has developed into one of Australia’s brightest young stars and has demonstrated the drive and raw talent required for success at the highest level.
“This pathway was first forged by Aaron Mooy just two years ago, and we are all delighted to see another Australian-grown talent make this move. The combination of City Football Group’s global football structure and the world-leading City Football Academy facilities create an environment in which this pathway can become well-trodden.”
Manchester City are now exploring a development pathway for Arzani, and a further announcement regarding a loan to progress his career will be made in the coming days.
