Royals’ senior men solidify defensive unit with arrival of Rashid Hayek ahead of 2025 season

Essendon Royals are thrilled to announce the signing of talented defender Rashid Hayek ahead of the 2025 season.

Hayek joins Royals after a stint playing for Young Lions in Singapore’s top tier, making three appearances for their senior side during an injury-riddled campaign.

The centre-back previously played for Western United’ senior academy side, where he was part of the squad that secured promotion to VPL1 during the 2022 season.

Hayek’s arrival helps bolster our defensive unit significantly, joining fellow defender Vincent Nicoletti as the Royals’ two confirmed new signings going into next season, along with re-signings Brad Norton, Will Thomason and James Tieri.

The club will announce more new arrivals and re-signings in the coming days and weeks as preparations continue for next season.