Newcastle Jets have signed Reno Piscopo on a two-year deal, with head coach Arthur Papas touting his new signing as a future Socceroo capable of making the squad for Australia’s 2022 FIFA Men’s World Cup campaign.
Piscopo joins the Jets from Wellington Phoenix, where he spent the past three Isuzu UTE A-League seasons. Piscopo made 61 appearances for the ‘Nix in all competitions, scoring eight goals.
The 24-year-old recently played a starring role for the A-Leagues All Stars against FC Barcelona, registering a goal and assist in an eye-catching performance in late May.
In 2020 Piscopo travelled to Thailand with the Australia U23’s and proceeded to play a key role in his nation’s qualification to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, starting five of six games to help Graham Arnold’s side to a third-place finish.
Now, with a two-year contract at a new club freshly inked, Papas has tipped his star signing to make a late bolt into World Cup contention with a bright start to the 2022-23 A-League Men’s campaign.
“We are excited to welcome Reno Piscopo to the Newcastle Jets,” Papas said in a club statement. “In Reno, we have signed one of Australia’s most creative and talented players.
“It’s a key position player that will add a lot of quality to our attacking game with his ability to draw players in, go past players and play the final pass.
“We held talks with Reno and his family over a long period of time and know we are getting a player who is full of ambition, drive and is coming to Newcastle to make a difference.
“Without doubt a future Socceroo who is good enough to be on the plane to Qatar with our national team.”
Piscopo expressed his eagerness to get started under Papas and learn Newcastle’s style of play – an approach to football he believes suits the attributes he brings to the table.
“I’m excited to be joining the Jets. Their attacking style of play really suits me, and I can’t wait to get started.
I’m looking forward to working with Arthur and learning from him. His style of of football excites me and I can’t wait to start.”
