Alright, best to get it out of the way early…
“What a Brillante signing!”
That’s been the overwhelming majority of the online reaction to City’s acquisition of former-Sydney FC midfielder Josh Brillante on a 2-year deal.
“That’s Good news!” is what the fans also said when they learned that the club had re-signed Curtis Good, extending his stay in Bundoora for 2 more years.
So, asides from having a cavalry of comedians to call upon for your next social function, what else can be taken away from the online reaction to Brillante’s signature?
As it turns out, the transaction has polarised the opinions of A-League fans.
Whilst countless optimistic Cityzens tagged their mates and noted something along the lines of “Great signing”, others had their reservations.
The primary concern was whether Brillante’s introduction to the City roster could spell the end for 29-year-old Luke Brattan, who would likely occupy a similar position in the starting line-up.
“Good signing, now to keep Bratts,” said one fan, whilst another believed City may actually end up losing the better player, simply stating: “Brattan > Brillante every day of the week.”
There were plenty of Sydney FC fans out in force in the comments, with some of them quick to point out Brillante’s recent poor form in the Asian Champion’s League:
“He was garbage last season for Sydney, he cost us a lot of games with his defensive errors including in the ACL and if he plays like that for City they'll hate him. They better hope it was just a mental thing.”
However, other Sky Blue fans expressed their sincere disappointment at his departure from the club, with one even commenting: “As a Sydney fan, gunna miss this guy. Absolute work horse in defence, unsung hero. Great pick up for City! Good luck at your new club.”
By reputation alone, Brillante is one of the top midfielders in the league, with his aforementioned defensive work rates and impressive passing range making him a promising acquisition to solidify City’s midfield and hopefully encourage a more direct play-style.
The 26-year-old has spent 2 years in Italy’s Serie A and Serie B with Fiorentina, Empoli and Como, whilst racking up 2 goals and 10 assists across 134 appearances in the A-League.
Besides… it’s not like he’ll have to worry about Champions League football this season anyway.
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