After the recently-announced departure of veteran Adam Federici, Macarthur FC revealed late last week that his captaincy replacement would be Ulises Davila.
The attacking midfielder, who played for the Wellington Phoenix for two years before signing with the Bulls in 2021, was shocked by the promotion.
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"To be honest it was a big surprise, but I am very honoured they chose me as captain," Davila said.
"It's a big challenge after Mark Milligan and Adam Federici, they are two Australian legends and have done a great job.
"I'm not a person who likes to talk a lot, but I will give my body and soul to ensure I'm a good leader through hard work and being a role model especially to the younger players.
"I am excited for our first game in front of fans and can't wait to walk on the pitch wearing the captain band with pride for my club."
Davila, who is Mexican, has signed with 12 teams in the span of his 13-year professional career.
He played his junior football for Guadalajara for seven years from 2001, along with stints in the Mexican junior national sides, before signing with Guadalajara upon turning pro in 2008. He played 15 matches for the club in three years before he became the first Mexican player to sign with Chelsea in 2011.
The 31-year-old's wealth of experience and natural aptitude for leadership, club coach Ante Milicic said, were the primary drivers behind his appointment.
"Since joining the club, it was clear to me, and the football staff, that Ulises is a natural leader and someone who has all the attributes that represent our club," Milicic said.
"Ulises not only has the experience behind him but also the dedication and work ethic to be a great leader and example of what the club is all about. I have no doubt he will be a brilliant captain and will strive for the best."
Macarthur FC is closely aligned with local soccer organisations, having signed MoUs with a number of regional associations shortly after its inception in mid-2020.
Bulls fans in the STFA can watch Davila make his captaincy debut next Saturday, November 13, when he leads Macarthur on to the field in Newcastle for the club's first FFA Cup match against Hamilton Olympic.
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