Kurto steps in after veteran Federici farewelled by Macarthur Bulls

Federici, a veteran of over 300 professional games across 18 years, announced his retirement earlier this week due to injury.

During the Bulls' inaugural season, Federici was outstanding in goal. He played 28 games for Macarthur in 2020/21, during which time he secured the equal-most saves in the competition.

"I have been so fortunate to have the career I've had," Federici said.

"While I would've love to lead the Bulls this season, my body is in a different position and cannot continue. Through my journey I have played with wonderful coaches, players and clubs and I'm grateful that I got to finish my career on my home turf.

"I am honoured to have been able to represent Australia and my time with the national team will stay fondly in my memories forever. For now, my focus is to work on recovery, but I look forward to what the game has in store for me going forward."

Bulls head coach, Ante Milicic, said Federici was "one of the best Australian goalkeepers", and praised the 36-year-old's "outstanding" leadership.

"He has been a great role model for the younger players in the squad, having shared his experience and knowledge with them," Milicic said.

"It's a sad day for Bulls fans knowing Adam won't be part of the squad this season, but as a club we will help and support him through his rehab and continue the relationship built to extend in some way in the future."

However, in an announcement released by the club earlier today, it was confirmed that former Western United and Wellington Phoenix keeper, Kurto, has filled Federici's newly-vacated spot in the squad.

The Polish native, Milicic said, would be an "invaluable" asset to the Bulls.

"Alongside Nick Suman, [Kurto] will give us tremendous security in the goalkeeping department," he said.

"He has been outstanding in his A-League journey so far and I look forward to watching what he can bring under the guidance of myself and Glen Moss for the upcoming season."

This will mark Kurto's first season with a Sydney A-League club, and the 30-year-old expressed his excitement about the move.

"I am really excited to be joining Macarthur FC and make the move to Sydney. I think the club has done a tremendous job on recruitment for the upcoming season and I look forward to joining my teammates," he said.

"It's always a challenge moving to a new city, but I believe it will be an exciting one for both myself and my family."

The Macarthur Bulls will play their first match of the 2021/22 season on Sunday, November 21, from 6.05pm at Campbelltown Sports Stadium against Wellington Phoenix.

Did you know the Goulburn Post is now offering breaking news alerts and a weekly email newsletter? Keep up-to-date with all the local news: sign up here.