Former Adelaide United captain Craig Goodwin has fired a bitter parting shot at the club, saying he has been left feeling “hugely disappointed” at how news of his departure was handled.
Key points:
- Last week it was announced that Goodwin would be joining a Saudi club
- The former captain has played more than 100 games for the Reds
- On social media, he has expressed frustration with the club over how his departure was handled
Last week, it was revealed that the 31-year-old — who represented the Socceroos with distinction at last year’s World Cup — would be leaving the Reds to re-join Saudi side Al-Wehda.
In a short video shared by the Reds on X (formerly known as Twitter), Goodwin said that “after much deliberation from myself and the club”, he had made the decision to take up an “overseas opportunity” that would be “life-changing” for him and his family.
In the video, Goodwin — who played more than 100 games for the Reds over three separate stints — also expressed hope that “it’s not the last that we’ll see of me at Adelaide United”.
But in a subsequent post on his own X account on Wednesday afternoon, Goodwin expressed frustration at the fact that that video had been cropped, “along with other things”.
“I’m grateful and honoured for every time I’ve put on the United shirt and to captain the club and represent the incredible people and fans associated with it,” he said.
“But I am hugely disappointed with how this was handled.
“To not even get a good luck or thank you upon leaving and for the announcement video to be cropped along with other things is disappointing.”
Goodwin added that “despite that” feeling, Adelaide United’s players, coaching staff, and fans “will always be in my heart and I wish everyone success”.
In a public statement released last week, Adelaide United chair Ned Morris praised Goodwin for his “extraordinary contribution to Adelaide United”.
“We have hope that when he decides to return to Australia that Adelaide is his first choice,” he said.
“Our focus is now on ensuring the best possible performance for our fans as we continue our preparations for the 2023/24 season.”
In the same public statement, head coach Carl Veart described Goodwin’s departure as a significant loss for the club.
“Again, we say thanks to Craig for his services to the club and welcome him back anytime,” he said.
The club has been contacted for comment.
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