Monge credits NPL for Victory move
After returning from a tough overseas stint playing in the Greek Second Division, 22-year-old Fabian Monge took the National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s competition by storm as he played a starring role in APIA Leichhardt FC’s 2023 Premiership win – so much so, he earned himself an A-League deal with Melbourne Victory.
The exciting midfielder proved to be a valuable signing for coach Franco Parisi as the former Australian Under 17, 20 and 23 representative played a pivotal role in APIA’s successful Premiership run.
Monge paid huge praise to the NPL NSW Men’s competition as the stepping stone to him earning a contract with Tony Popovic’s Melbourne Victory side for the 2023-24 A-League Men’s season.
“The NPL NSW Men’s competition was vital for me,” Monge stated to Football NSW.
“It gave me the opportunity to play first grade at a young age and when I came back home,
it gave me the opportunity to play regular minutes again and provided a pathway for me back into the A-League.”
It was an unforgettable season for Monge who paid tribute to his teammates at APIA following their Premiership success.
“It was a great season, obviously when you’re winning and playing well, football is always more enjoyable so to be able to do that this year with a top bunch of boys was an amazing feeling.”
Prior to signing with APIA in the NPL, Monge played for the Western Sydney Wanderers and Sydney Olympic where it was there, the talented star gained more experience playing in the state’s top tier men’s competition.
Fast forward a few years and Monge is now playing for a spot in Popovic’s Victory squad, a move that came through following APIA’s round 29 clash against NWS Spirit FC.
“We had just finished a game against NWS Spirit FC and Franco (Parisi) pulled me aside and told me I was off to Melbourne to train with the Victory.
“I came down and was luckily enough to get offered a contract.”
In a club statement, Melbourne Victory’s Director of Football John Didulica was thrilled to have snapped up Monge.
“Prior to his recent success with APIA Leichhardt, Monge was a stand-out young talent in the Y-League and we are confident we are getting a player with quality and pedigree and one who can contribute to the team.”
