Giovanni Savarese, the new head coach of Melbourne Victory, has expressed enthusiasm about the club's participation in Asian competition this season, emphasizing the excitement it brings to everyone associated with the team.

New Beginnings in Victoria

Savarese arrived in Victoria earlier this week and has quickly begun preparations with his squad, who are set to face NPL Tasmania's Kingborough Lions United FC in the Australia Cup Round of 32 on Sunday, July 26. His appointment came as a surprise, especially considering his recent tenure with Major League Soccer's Portland Timbers, where he successfully led the team to the post-season tournament in four out of five seasons.

A Clear Identity and Attacking Style

During his time with the Timbers, Savarese also secured the 'MLS is Back' tournament in 2020. He aims to implement an attacking style of play at Melbourne Victory, stating, “First of all, it is going to be a team that has a clear identity... Definitely the type of team that is going to look to be up front, to be more attacking-minded.” He emphasized the importance of players giving their all on the field to make the fans proud.

Having been without a coaching role since leaving the Timbers in 2023, Savarese felt a strong connection to Melbourne Victory during the interview process. He noted, “It felt organic; it felt it was the right place, and that is why I made the decision... I need to identify myself with the club, with the philosophy, with the fans.”

Upcoming Challenges

Melbourne Victory will compete on multiple fronts during the 2026/27 season, starting with the Australia Cup match against Kingborough Lions United FC. Following the domestic cup, the team will shift focus to the AFC Champions League Two, which begins on September 16. As one of three Australian clubs in the AFC competition this season, Victory is set to face significant challenges ahead.