Farewell, Alfie: A-Leagues legend departs Sydney FC

Prolific striker Adam Le Fondre has parted ways with Sydney FC, calling time on a stellar five-season stint at the club.

The Englishman’s departure was confirmed by Sydney FC on Monday evening; Le Fondre calls time on his stint in Sky Blue after 128 games, 73 goals, two Championships, one Premiership and three-consecutive Grand Final appearances between 2019-2021.

Le Fondre’s 73 goals for Sydney FC is the second-highest tally in club history (Alex Brosque: 83), while his goals-per-game ratio of 0.59 is the equal-best of any Sky Blue.

“My time with Sydney FC has been fantastic,” Le Fondre said in a club statement. “It has been a joy to work with every player and member of staff and to play in front of our fabulous members and fans.”

“I would have loved to have stayed and gone on to break Brosquey’s goalscoring record at Sydney FC however understand the club wants to make a change.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to have played here and to have been so successful and I look forward to a new challenge in my career.”

Le Fondre first joined Sydney FC in August, 2018. He’s spent four full seasons at the club, winning Sydney’s Golden Boot in each of those four campaigns. He spent a brief period away from the club at Indian Super League side Mumbai City FC, returning in mid-2021 to make seven appearances in the 2020-21 season.

As his exit was confirmed, Sydney head coach Steve Corica praised his talismanic striker as one of the best the club has seen.

“Adam has been an unbelievable signing for Sydney FC and will be remembered as one of the club’s greatest strikers,” Corica said.

“He was one of my first signings as head coach and he has never let me or this club down.

“His ability to score goals whatever the conditions is invaluable and he will continue to do that wherever he plays.

“On behalf of the club, we thank him immensely for everything he has done for Sydney FC both on and off the park.

“We wish him and his family all the best.”