Macarthur FC, who are licking their wounds after the 2-1 loss at the hands of the Wanderers on the weekend, will have plenty of time to re-group.
The Bulls have a bye this week, which is just as well, because the defeat at Parramatta wasn’t the only issue they will need to confront just as the A-League enters the pointy end of the competition.
They will also need to decide who will replace Frenchman Valere Germain, who has suddenly departed the club.
He is heading to Japan where he will continue his long career.
Germain didn’t play on the weekend because he was serving a two match suspension for using offensive language directed towards the referee a week earlier at Campbelltown where the Bulls played out a 2-2 draw with Western United.
In a media statement, Macarthur FC said “Germain’s time at the Bulls has been nothing short of exceptional’’.
“He leaves as the club’s all-time leading goalscorer across all competitions, having reached his 500th professional appearance last season and proudly leading the squad as captain for the 2024/25 A-League season.
“During his tenure, Germain scored 27 goals and provided 13 assists, making a significant impact both on and off the field.
“He also played a key role in leading the Bulls to their second Australia Cup triumph in just three years.’’
Head coach Mile Sterjovski also thanked Germain for his time at the club:
“It’s unfortunate that Valere is leaving the club. He is a great person and professional who gave his best to the club. I know that he loved playing for the club.
“It’s great to see what we have done this season, and how it has attracted interest for our players both young and experienced. We wish Valere all the best.”
Germain’s departure comes after the loss of several rising young stars, including Jed Drew and Oliver Jones, exposed the depth of the first grade squad.
Last Sunday, the Bulls led 1-0 before allowing the Wanderers to come from behind and steal the three points.
The Bulls had plenty of opportunities to score more goals, but execution let them down time and again.
The loss has pushed the Bulls just out of the top six on goal difference with eight rounds remaining.
Their next match is on Saturday, March 1 when they will host Sydney FC at Campbelltown Stadium.
