With Adelaide United just days away from their first Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s clash of the 2025/26 season against Sydney FC, senior defender Bart Vriends and young winger Yaya Dukuly fronted the media to discuss preparations, new faces, and the team’s mindset heading into Friday night at Coopers Stadium.
Vriends: “We’re ready and excited to start strong”
Vriends said the squad has enjoyed a full pre-season under new Head Coach Airton Andrioli, with the team benefitting from consistency, fitness, and a refreshed culture.
“We’ve had 15 weeks to prepare, and that should be enough to be ready for Friday,” Vriends said. “The squad’s healthy and strong – we’ve trained really well for months, and we’re more than excited to start.”
The Dutch defender spoke about the importance of rebuilding after several senior players departed during the off-season, highlighting the leadership of returning captain Craig Goodwin and the impact of new signings Joshua Smits, Anselmo de Moraes, and Juan Muñiz.
“Replacing experienced players like Isaías and Javi López isn’t easy, but the new guys have really strengthened the squad,” Vriends said. “There’s a new spirit and culture, and we feel like we can achieve great things.”
Vriends also hinted that Andrioli’s system will bring a “positive, aggressive, and entertaining” brand of football while making the Reds “harder to beat” – a key focus after a frustrating finish to last season.
“We were positive and entertaining last year, but not always solid enough. We’ve worked hard to fix that, and I’m convinced we’ll see a stronger team this season.”
Dukuly: “It’s a new role for me – and I’m ready for it”
Emerging winger Yaya Dukuly said the team’s full fitness and cohesion were major positives ahead of Round One, adding that Andrioli’s familiarity with Adelaide’s youth has created confidence within the group.
“This is the first time in a while we’ve had a full squad fit for Round One – it’s a big positive,” Dukuly said. “We all know Airton and the way he wants to play. It’s different, but I love it. I’m here for it.”
Dukuly, who impressed last season as an impact substitute, said he’s ready to take the next step.
“I was almost cursed last year by doing so well off the bench,” he joked. “But this season, I want to start more games and take on that role. Airton’s shown belief in me all pre-season.”
He also called on Reds fans to turn out in force for the club’s first home fixture of the campaign.
“You always want to start well — especially when it’s at home. Let’s hope everyone comes out Friday night, because it’s going to be a good one.”
