Wellington Phoenix has officially announced the departure of veteran striker David Ball, marking the end of an era for the club as he leaves after over five years of service. The mutual decision to terminate the remaining six months of his contract comes just ahead of the A-League transfer window, which opens this Thursday.

During his time with the Phoenix, the 35-year-old English forward made a significant impact, appearing in 122 matches, scoring 15 goals and providing 26 assists. Ball played a crucial role in helping the team reach the finals in four out of five full seasons, and he earned the Player of the Year award in 2020, contributing to the club’s highest-ever regular-season finish of third place.

Ball’s appearances this season have been limited, with only one match played as a substitute during the season opener. This shift in playing time reflects coach Giancarlo Italiano’s strategy of favoring younger players, a decision that may have influenced both Ball and the club in their mutual agreement to part ways.

Expressing deep emotional ties to the Phoenix, Ball shared, “It’s probably been the toughest decision of my career. I’ve put my heart and soul into the club since I got here, and I’ve fallen in love with the Nix, the people around it, and the fans.” His departure undoubtedly leaves a gap in the squad, especially as the team currently sits in 10th place in the league, having lost six out of their first eleven matches.

Phoenix’s director of football, Shaun Gill, hailed Ball as “the ultimate pro,” acknowledging his influence and leadership on younger players, particularly during the challenges faced by the team during the COVID-19 pandemic. Club captain Alex Rufer also recognized Ball’s significant contributions, reflecting on their close friendship and the pivotal role he played during tough periods for the team.

Looking forward, Ball hopes to continue his playing career, ideally in New Zealand, but has emphasized the importance of spending time with his family. His departure signifies not only an end of an era for Wellington Phoenix but also opens avenues for new talent as the club aims to improve its performance for the remainder of the A-League season.

This transition inspires optimism for the Phoenix as they prepare to rejuvenate their roster, with fans cherishing the memories of Ball’s contributions while eagerly anticipating the potential new signings that could bolster the team’s competitiveness. The future looks promising as the Wellington Phoenix seeks to solidify its standing in the league and strive for success in upcoming matches.