Van der Venne ticks all the boxes as Melbourne City go Dutch

Melbourne City have turned to the Dutch Eredivisie to strengthen their latest Isuzu UTE A-League Championship bid, signing Richard van der Venne.

Van der Venne arrives from top-flight outfit RKC Waalwijk on a two-year deal, the 2021-22 A-League Men Grand Finalists announced on Wednesday.

The 30-year-old Dutch attacking midfielder, who will join his new teammates in Melbourne next month, is City’s second signing after Callum Talbot.

Van der Venne ticked all the boxes in City’s search for midfield reinforcements – an area that will be without Socceroo Connor Metcalfe next season following his move to German second-tier club St Pauli.

“It was very important that we found the right player, and PK [head coach Patrick Kisnorbo] was very keen to ensure he was also of the right character,” said City director of football Michael Petrillo.

“After considering our options and speaking with Richard, it was clear he was the one we wanted.

“I’m sure our fans will enjoy watching him play and we are excited by what he will bring to the team.”

Van der Venne joined RKC Waalwijk from Go Ahead Eagles in 2020, having scored 17 goals and provided eight assists at his former club.

He scored five goals and supplied three assists as RKC Waalwijk finished 10th in the Eredivisie, behind champions Ajax last season.

Van der Venne, who scored away to Dutch powerhouse Ajax in 2021-22, will embark on his first playing journey outside the Netherlands via back-to-back Premiership winners City.

“Many people have told me that Melbourne is a great place to live, and I’ve heard that the culture and people are great,” Van der Venne said.

“I’m really looking forward to the move and I can’t wait to get to Melbourne next month and meet my team-mates and the coaches.

“I’m very excited for this new adventure and to be joining a successful club that is regularly competing for trophies.

“I’ve watched some games and the stadium and fans seem amazing. It excites me to know that this is where I’ll be playing for the next two years.”