Adelaide United can officially confirm the transfer of Stefan Mauk to J2 League side Fagiano Okayama for an undisclosed fee.
Mauk returned to the Reds in January 2020, four years after initially signing with his hometown Club and going on to win a Premiership and Championship double.
Ahead of the 2020/21 season, the 26-year-old was named Captain and has served the role with enormous pride and responsibility.
In his second stint with Adelaide, Mauk scored 10 goals in 48 matches across all competitions.
Speaking on his departure, Mauk said: “Being from Adelaide, it was a very tough decision to leave my hometown club and a great group of boys.
“The Club made it clear that they wanted to keep me, but this opportunity to test myself in Japan, while still in the prime of my career, is something I feel I need to do.
“Captaining this team has been a tremendous honour and I’m thankful for the opportunity Carl (Veart) has given and I wish the squad nothing but the best for the remainder of the season.”
Adelaide United Head Coach, Carl Veart, said: “We’ve known for a while this move for Stefan was likely, but he has remained an absolute professional and led our squad remarkably.
“The way he has carried himself and still given 110 per cent for this team has been exceptional and shows you the type of character Stefan is.
“On behalf of everyone at Adelaide United, I want to thank Stefan for how he has represented the Club and want him to know that he will always be welcomed back.
“We wish him all the best as he begins a new footballing chapter in Japan.”
Mauk’s final game for the Club will be this weekend’s Pride Game against Central Coast Mariners at Coopers Stadium on Saturday, 26 February.
