Adelaide United forward Craig Goodwin fronted the media on Wednesday, speaking publicly for the first time since officially returning to the Reds on a three-year deal. The 33-year-old addressed his recovery from a foot injury, his ambition to return to the Socceroos for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and his leadership aspirations under new Head Coach Airton Andrioli.
Goodwin on watching the Socceroos qualify for the FIFA World Cup…
“Absolutely, I was up early to support the boys. Not the prettiest football, but at this stage it’s about results. To beat Japan and Saudi away and qualify directly is a huge achievement. People called it the group of death, and it didn’t start great — so to finish it like that is something they should be really proud of.”
On missing out through injury and his recovery timeline…
“It was disappointing not to be involved, but I’m a football fan too — I wanted the team to win and be at the World Cup. Mentally, I’ve shifted my focus to the 2026 World Cup now. I’ve had a neuroma — an inflamed nerve in my foot — for a few years, and the cortisone has stopped working. So I need to get it removed [next week]. It’s a six-week recovery.”
On his motivation to reach another World Cup…
“I’ll be 34 by then, but I know if I play my best football consistently, I’ll be in with a chance. Popa’s [Popovic] shown it doesn’t matter where you play — it’s about how well you play. I made the last World Cup while playing for Adelaide, and I know my best football has come here. That’s why I came back.”
On settling back in at home…
“Being back feels like I never left. We’re still getting set up at home, but I’m really looking forward to preseason and linking up with the boys again.”
On his connection with the club and decision to return…
“I’ve always stayed in touch — I’m an Adelaide boy, a fan of the club. There were other offers, including staying in Saudi, but this is where I feel most passionate. That passion brings out the best in my football.”
On the current squad and need for improvement…
“Defensively, we’ve had issues. Last season felt like two halves — early on we looked like a team that could win it. I think the biggest change we need isn’t just personnel, but mentality. We need a ruthless belief that we can win it.”
On working under Airton Andrioli…
“I’ve known Airton since I was 13 or 14. He knows the youth and he’s done a great job with them. It’s exciting to be part of this new phase, and I want to help bring the best out of the group — especially mentally.”
On whether Carl Veart’s departure influenced his return…
“When I started talks, Carl was still coach. I’ve had a great relationship with him, and I think he took my game to another level. But in football, change happens. This is a transition phase, not a reset, and I’m here to help us go to the next level.”
On his leadership role moving forward…
“Leadership is massive, especially with a new coach in his first senior role. It’s similar to when Carl stepped in. The senior players need to drive the standards. I’m here to win something, and I’ll lead in every way I can.”
On the A or C GOODWIN back of shirt initial conundrum…
“We’ll see what happens with the names on the shirts! But I’m really looking forward to linking with Archie again — hopefully I can set him up for a few goals and help him take out the Golden Boot.”
