Western United FC sign veteran striker Nikita Rukavytsya

Western United FC strengthened their attacking options by signing experienced Australian striker Nikita Rukavytsya on a one-year contract.

The 36-year-old forward returns to the A-League Men after an eight-year stint in Israel, where he played for clubs such as Maccabi Haifa, Beitar Jerusalem, and Hapoel Be’er Sheva.

Rukavytsya has a solid track record in both club soccer and international soccer.

Rukavytsya has represented Australia 23 times and has also featured in tournaments like the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup.

During his time in Israel, Rukavytsya clinched the Golden Boot award twice and secured two league titles.

John Aloisi, the coach of Western United, expressed his delight at acquiring Rukavytsya’s services, praising his goal-scoring abilities and leadership qualities.

Aloisi stated, “Nikita is a proven goal scorer with experience at both club and international levels.

He will bring value to our team both on and off the field.

I am confident that he will be an asset to Western United.”

Rukavytsya’s signing comes as Western United has decided to part ways with striker Aleksandar Prijovic, who was awarded the Joe Marston Medal for being the player of the match in the grand final victory of the 2021–22 season.

The return of Rukavytsya to the A League is a boost to Western United’s attacking prowess and the A League’s talent for the 2023–24 season.

As a striker, he will be set to bring the needed firepower and leadership to guide Western United’s younger players as they are currently preparing for their first game of the season against Melbourne City on October 21 at AAMI Park.

Western United are currently the heavy outsiders, paying +400 against Melbourne City with the top A-League bookmakers.

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