Former Juventus star set to ignite A-League in huge coup

Sydney FC have pulled off a major signing coup with former Juventus and Bayern Munich star Douglas Costa signing on a two-year deal.
The 33-year-old was released from his contract with Brazilian club Fluminense, where he featured 22 times with no goals, before joining the Sky Blues as a marquee player.
Costa will travel to Sydney to commence training later this week ahead of a likely debut on September 19 in the AFC Champions League 2.
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The FIFA Club World Cup winner has an extensive list of achievements, winning five trophies with Italian colossus Juventus, six titles with Bayern Munich and eleven cups with Ukraine’s Shakhtar Donetsk.
He was a member of Brazil’s forward line in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and Copa America in 2015, joining the likes of Neymar, Philippe Coutinho and Gabriel Jesus.
Costa spent two years with the LA Galaxy in MLS prior to his time at Fluminense, scoring eight times in 51 games.
Douglas Costa of Fluminense. Getty
Over his 16-year career, Costa has totalled close to $140 million AUD in worldwide transfer fees.
Known for his speed and agility, the left winger is set to make waves in the A-League.
“I have been part of some incredible teams throughout my career, winning many titles and I have come to Sydney FC to win more,” Costa said.
“Football is in my blood and I arrive in Australia to raise the game in this country, entertain the passionate sporting public and bring silverware to Sydney FC.
“I’m excited to get to know the people, the country and seeing all the fans of every club.”
Sydney FC head coach Ufuk Talay and club chairman Scott Barlow were elated by the signing.
“We are thrilled to bring Brazilian World Cup star Douglas Costa to Sydney FC and the Isuzu-UTE A-League.
“He is one of the most high-profile footballers to ever play on these shores and the eyes of the football world will be on Sydney FC and the A-League this season,” Barlow said.
“Douglas is a proven winner, and his record of titles in the world’s top leagues is testament to that.
“This is yet another landmark signing in our club’s history and we welcome Douglas to Australia.”
Talay added: “It’s exciting to be able to attract a player of the calibre of Douglas Costa to Sydney FC.”
“He is a world class talent with 24 career trophies.
“His experience and knowledge will be a positive influence on the playing group.”