Adelaide United Captain, Isaías, has officially become an Australian citizen following a ceremony at Coopers Stadium on Tuesday.
The Spaniard was presented his Aussie citizenship alongside his daughter, Vega, and eight other conferees from a number of different nationalities.
It was a special moment and fitting venue for Isaías, who joined the Reds in 2013, and has been an integral pillar in the Club’s success during that time.
The 31-year-old has clinched four trophies since his arrival and collected several personal accolades along the way – including three Aurelio Vidmar Club Champion awards. He claimed his second FFA Cup title in October last year, as well as an historic Hyundai A-League Championship and Premiership double in 2016.
Isaías said being granted his citizenship was an extremely proud moment ahead of the Reds’ clash against Melbourne Victory tomorrow night.
“I feel really happy at the moment,” he told reporters on the pitch of Coopers Stadium.
“Not only for me but also for my family.
“I think it’s a special day for us and I hope to celebrate tomorrow with three points.”
GALLERY: Isaías Sanchez becomes an Australian citizen!
The former Espanyol midfielder has to date played a total of 163 games for the Reds and was given the Captain’s armband at the beginning of the 2017/18 season.
Isaías admitted he never thought about becoming an Aussie when initially embarking on his move to Adelaide.
He stated his original decision to play in Australia was based upon simply being a new “adventure”.
But once he began experiencing the Australian way of life it promoted the Spanish maestro to apply for citizenship.
“The first time when I arrived here it was more like an adventure for me,” he said.
“Like another experience in my career and now my thoughts are completely different. “And I’m hoping and I would like to grow my family here, so in this time (living) here it changed my mind because it’s a safe and healthy country.”
Adelaide United host Melbourne Victory in Round 12 of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 season on Wednesday, 9 January at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 7.20pm ACDT. Gates open 5.50pm.
