Essendon Royals final Senior Men’s Squad Announcements
Essendon Royals Finalize 2024 Squad with Key Signings
The Essendon Royals are excited to round out our 2024 senior men’s squad with three new signings – each poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
After honing his skills in Spain with Racing Murcia and showing promise in South Melbourne’s youth setup, Theofanis Tzelepis is set to bring his dynamic play to Cross Keys Reserve. Tzelepis is a player with international experience and a hunger to take his game to the next level. Essendon Royals are eager to provide the platform for Tzelepis to continue his impressive development. His technical abilities and youthful energy are anticipated to be a great asset to the Royals’ ambitions this season.
We’re equally thrilled to welcome Desire Nkonodogoro, whose track record speaks volumes of his prowess on the field. Transferring from Bentleigh United Cobras in the State League 1, Desire has an established reputation as a potent striker. With his roots in NPL football as a junior with Dandenong Thunder and netting three goals in just 12 league games for the Cobras, Desire’s addition is set to strengthen our attacking options.
Completing the trio is Gervais Nkonodogoro, a tenacious midfielder joining us from State League 3 side South Yarra. His industrious nature and ability to change the game have been his calling cards, evidenced by an impressive nine league goals last season. His addition to the Royals squad brings depth, resilience, and a goal-scoring threat from the midfield, enhancing the team’s dynamic in the center of the park.
The club can also confirm the ongoing involvement of several youth products who have trained significantly with the senior squad in the build up to the season.
Daniel Taubitz, who enjoyed a very promising start to his senior career in 2023, will be looking to force his way back into the squad having recovered from a serious knee injury. Luke Croce, another player who made his senior debut in 2023, will also be in the mix for selection.
Diarmaid Harrington continues to impress at centre-back, whilst Lewis Loncar – who made a senior debut in the final game of the 2023 season – is another player looking to bridge the gap between Under-23s and seniors.
Connor Valenti is another player who has been looking to impress in pre-season. Having arrived from Brunswick Juventus in 2023 as an Under-20s player, Valenti will look to build on pre-season and create further competition for Mick Ferrante’s senior squad.
The Essendon Royals welcome these talented players to the fold and look forward to the energy, skill, and passion they will bring to the team. With the squad now complete, the stage is set for a compelling season ahead. Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling campaign as we aim for glory with our strengthened lineup.