Ross Papadakis 
Sydney FC 23/24 Season Review. Photo: Sydney FC. Design: Round Ball Australia
The 2023/24 A-League Men season for Sydney FC was a story of contrasting halves, despite a pre-season that hinted at success, early struggles left no time to complete their late season charge.
Their Australia Cup triumph, secured with a thrilling comeback against Brisbane Roar thanks to Fabio Gomes’ heroics, offered a glimpse of their potential. However, that early success proved elusive in the league, ultimately leading to Steve Corica’s departure in November.
Enter Ufuk Talay. His arrival as manager marked a turning point. With a tactical shift and a renewed focus, Talay sparked a resurgence.
Leading his side on a strong run of form, Talay propelled Sydney FC from 0-3 to a respectable top-four finish.
While the sting of a semi-final defeat to the eventual champions lingers, there were undeniable positive signs for the future under Talay’s leadership.
Season Grade: B-
On paper, a new training centre combined with the expectation to be successful every season; a 4th place finish and a semi-final appearance, may seem like a failure. However, factoring in a poor start and a change in management – they can keep their heads held high.
Three straight losees under Steve Corica saw the potential championship winner’s expectations plummet. However, Talay’s leadership showcased the squad’s quality and laid the groundwork for a finals surge and title challenge.
The team demonstrated significant resilience and adaptability, overcoming mid-season turmoil to end the season on a high note.
Despite not clinching any silverware, the progress made under challenging circumstances suggests a bright path and a fresh start for Sydney FC.
Highlight: Last-Gasp Derby Win
The undisputed highlight of the season was Sydney FC’s emphatic last-gasp 2-1 victory against city rivals Western Sydney Wanderers. A 98th-minute winner by Jaiden Kucharski sealed the win for the Sky Blues.
The young midfielder who emerged as the hero, cemented his status as a rising star and provided a crucial confidence boost for Sydney FC as they head into the final stages of the season.
A dramatic victory that not only secured bragging rights in the Sydney Derby but also propelled Sydney FC further into the top-four race.
Lowlight: Bye Bye Bimbi
The low point arguably came under Corica’s management. A 2-0 loss to Melbourne City marked three straight defeats to start the league season.
Leaving Sydney FC languishing at the bottom of the table with seven goals against and zero goals scored, prompted serious concerns about Corica’s tenure.
After nearly 20 years involved with the club and 13 trophies amassed across his playing and coaching career, the Sydney FC foundation player was let go.
Steady the Ship and Reignite Title Dreams
With a full preseason under his belt, Ufuk Talay has the opportunity to steady the ship and stamp his philosophy on the squad.
His experience as a player and assistant coach at Sydney FC gives him valuable insights into the club’s culture and playing style.
Fans will be hoping that Talay can use this knowledge to revitalize the team and reignite their championship ambitions. However, key departures present significant challenges.
Club legend Luke Brattan’s absence leaves a leadership void, while the departure of top scorer Fabio Gomes requires a solution for his attacking contributions.
Talay must find a new leader who embodies the Sky Blues’ spirit and identify a replacement to maintain their attacking firepower.
The departure of Robert Mak, another attacking option, frees up space for wingers like the impressive Joe Lolley to shine or perhaps even a chance for a youngster to step in and make their mark.
Individual Performers
Joe Lolley came out on top at Sydney FC’s awards night, the former English Premier League forward scored 11 goals, jointly taking out the Golden Boot with Fabio Gomes to cap off a fantastic season.
His performances earned him not only the Sydney FC Player of the Year award but also the Alex Tobin Medal a new two-year contract, solidifying him as a key part of the Sky Blues’ plans moving forward.
Moved into central defence during the preseason, Jake Girdwood-Reich hasn’t looked back. He started 29 matches across all competitions and formed a strong partnership with Hayden Matthews when he was integrated in the back half of the season.
Girdwood-Reich was named among the substitutes in this season’s PFA Team of the Season.
- Golden Boot: Fabio Gomes & Joe Lolley
- Sydney FC Player of the Year: Joe Lolley
- Members’ Player of the Year: Joe Lolley
- U20 Player of the Year: Corey Hollman
- Isuzu-Ute Alex Tobin Medalist: Joe Lolley
Conclusion
The 2023/24 A-League Men season for Sydney FC was a rollercoaster ride of contrasting emotions.
Despite early struggles and a change in management, the Sky Blues displayed remarkable resilience to finish a respectable fourth and reach the semi-finals.
The future is bright for the Sky Blues, with a blend of experience and exciting young talent ready to write the next chapter in the club’s illustrious history.