Brisbane Roar has continued its investment in Queensland talent with regional product Louis Zabala signing his first professional contract with the club.
The 20-year-old has been rewarded for a “whirlwind” 10 days that have included FFA Cup and Isuzu UTE A-League debuts amid a run of three consecutive first-team starts.
“If you told me I would be in this position two weeks ago I probably wouldn’t have believed you,” Zabala said.
“Football is crazy and it moves fast. At the moment I’m just enjoying the ride and enjoying being able to play regularly.
“This is a great reward for a lot of hard work I’ve put in over the years. I’m extremely grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity and for the trust that has been shown in me. That gives me a lot of confidence to continue training hard and keep performing.”
Zabala has been training with the first team since the beginning of pre-season, having captained the Brisbane Roar Youth side to its highest ever NPL Queensland finish in 2021.
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The former Australian Schoolboys representative, who grew up in Giru near Townsville, made his first home appearance in Wednesday night’s 1-0 win over Perth Glory.
“It was an unreal experience,” he said. “The atmosphere was really good. And to get the win on my home debut was massive.”My mum flew down on Wednesday morning. Seeing her after the game was awesome. My parents have sacrificed a lot for me and to be able to begin to repay them is great.”
Head Coach Warren Moon congratulated Zabala on the new deal and praised his exciting form.
“Louis has come to us from country Queensland and there is nothing better than seeing another Academy player come through and do well,” Moon said.
“He has stepped up in a time of need for us and has acquitted himself really well. I’m really happy for him. We’re not surprised – he’s a winner, he’s got a tenacious attitude.
“We’re looking forward to seeing more of him in the first team.”
Zabala could make his third Isuzu UTE A-League appearance when the Roar host Adelaide United at Moreton Daily Stadium this Sunday.
Kick-off is at 5:45pm. CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS.
NEXT GAME
Isuzu UTE A-League
Brisbane Roar v Adelaide United
Sunday, 23 January 2022
Moreton Daily Stadium
KO: 5:45pm (QLD)
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS
