Tara Murray
Western United’s games record holder Connor Pain is on the move.
United announced last week it had agreed to the transfer of Pain to join Saudi Arabian second tier club, Al-Orobah Football Club for the 2023-24 season.
A foundation player, Pain joined United ahead of its inaugural A-League Men’s season in 2019 as just the 11th player to sign for the club.
Pain went on to play 105 league matches for the club, the first player to reach 100 goals for the club and which is a club record.
He was consistently a strong performer across all four seasons, being runner-up in the WUFC player of the year award in the first three seasons and third-placed in the fourth season.
A fan favourite, Pain will be remembered as a player who was there from the beginning and part of the men’s team that delivered the first silverware to the club winning the 2021-22 A-League championship.
Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato thanked Pain for his time and effort at the club.
“Since the club’s inception, Connor has been an exceptional professional and person for our club both on and off the field,” he said. “He has endeared himself to his peers and our fans and was well respected by all.
“Connor has always expressed his desire to pursue footballing opportunities abroad and we are delighted that we are able to help facilitate his football ambitions.
“He was an integral part of our championship winning squad in 2021-22 and he helped shape and influence the club culture to what it is today.
“On behalf of everyone at the club, we wish Connor every success with his professional career abroad.”
Pain acknowledged it was a tough decision to make having seen the club grow first half, but didn’t want to have any regrets in his career.
“It’s been the toughest decision I’ve ever had to make in football but something that has always sparked my interest is the ability football gives you to explore different cultures,” he said.
“I’ve met people along the way from players to staff that I will remain friends with forever, it’s been such a special experience.
“To all the fans that have supported both myself and the team through the good times and the trying, I hope you understand my decision and I just want to say thanks to all of you, so very sincerely.”
