Marco Tilio is set to leave Celtic on loan to Rapid Vienna, preferring to continue his career in Europe rather than return to Australia. The contract includes a purchase clause that will be activated if he appears for the Austrian club a set number of times.
The 23-year-old winger returned to Melbourne City last season for a brief stint, with the A-League club hoping to keep him for longer. Despite attention from his former club, Tilio has decided to seek another opportunity in European football.
Tilio made a big impact when he returned to Melbourne, reminding fans why he was regarded as one of the country’s best emerging talents. However, his current concentration is completely on creating an impression in Austria.
Celtic have approved the deal, with the loan serving as an opportunity for Tilio to play regular games and advance his career in a challenging league.
Michael Petrillo, Melbourne City’s Director of Football, praised Tilio’s impact on the club and supported his choice to return to Europe.
He stated: (Melbourne City FC) “Marco has been a wonderful player for our Club – not only for what he’s achieved on the pitch, but also for how he’s carried himself professionally.
“He’s played an important role in two successful periods with City, and we’ve all loved watching him grow into one of the country’s best offensive talents.
“While we were eager to prolong his stay and pursue further conversations with Celtic, we fully appreciate Marco’s desire to test himself in Europe again.
“We thank him for everything he’s contributed to Melbourne City and wish him every success in the next stage of his career.”
This loan to Rapid Vienna provides Tilio with a new opportunity in a league that has helped many talented attackers improve. The Austrian Bundesliga should provide him with more consistent first-team minutes as he attempts to improve his skills.
Rapid’s option to make the move permanent demonstrates faith in Tilio’s abilities. It also provides the player with a clear goal, since he knows that if he completes the required amount of games, he will be able to stay longer.
From Celtic’s perspective, the transfer is consistent with their strategy of sending young players out to get valuable experience. It also provides the possibility of bringing him back more prepared or making a permanent move.
Now that Tilio has left the A-League, the attention will be on how quickly he adjusts to his new surroundings. If he takes advantage of the opportunity, it may be a watershed moment in his career, which has already brought him throughout the world.
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