Louis D’Arrigo and Al Hassan Toure have revealed there was never any doubt about committing their futures to Adelaide United.
The prodigious pair signed three-year contract extensions with the Reds which will see them remain at Coopers Stadium until the end of the Hyundai A-League 2022/23 season.
D’Arrigo, 18, said he did not think twice about accepting the Club’s offer.
“I don’t think so,” he told reporters at a press conference on Friday.
“When they came to me I straight out wanted to stay here. I’m very happy here. It’s my home town and just very excited.”
The young midfielder has taken his opportunity with both hands since receiving his starting debut against Central Coast Mariners in the FFA Cup 2019 Semi-final.
D’Arrigo admitted it was always a goal of his to make it professional, revealing he has not been surprised with how he has made a rather seamless transition from squad player to regular.
He added that he learned a lot training with Reds legend, and fellow defensive midfielder, Isaías, over the past two years
“It’s something you want, I don’t think surprised but you’ve got to aim to be in the first 11 and it did happen very quickly,” he said.
“I learned a lot, watching him in training and games he’s I think the best player I’ve watched live.”
D’Arrigo said while his immediate focus is with Adelaide, he stated that he does harbour ambitions to one day play at the highest level in Europe.
“I think at the end of the day that’s where you want to end up,” he said.
“But right now playing for Adelaide is the most important thing but we all strive to play overseas and I’m sure if we keep working we’ll get there.”
Locked in. 🔒#AUFChttps://t.co/pRHLs0QbKL
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) December 6, 2019
Toure also said he was proud to be staying at United for the next three years.
“It’s really good to be signed to my home town,” he said.
“It’s good to play in front of family and friends each week and it’s just a big honour to play for Adelaide United.”
The 19-year-old was one of the stars of the Reds’ successful FFA Cup 2019 campaign, scoring five goals and winning the Mark Viduka Medal.
He also scored on his Hyundai A-League debut and Olyroos debut.
Toure said the past couple of months has been a whirlwind, but insisted the only way to continue performing and maintain consistency is through hard work.
“It still feels unreal because it’s my dream to play for Adelaide United,” he said.
“But we just have to keep working hard and do better things.”
Adelaide United host Newcastle Jets in Round 9 of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 season on Sunday, 8 December at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 5.30pm ACDT. Gates open at 4.30pm. Live and Exclusive on Fox Sports, Kayo Sports and the My Football Live App.
