All White Elijah Just secures Championship move to Swansea City
All White winger Elijah Just has completed a move to Swansea City in the English Championship following his performance at the recent Football World Cup. The transfer involves a three-year deal, with an option to extend for an additional 12 months, and is subject to regulatory approval. His former club, Motherwell FC in the Scottish Premiership, confirmed they received a club-record fee for the 26-year-old, though the exact amount remains undisclosed under the agreement terms with Swansea. British media, however, reported the transfer fee to be around £6 million (NZ$13.8 million).
Just will wear the number eight jersey for Swansea City, a club that competes in the second tier of English football. He joins fellow All White Marko Stamenić at the club. Stamenić was a notable player for Swansea last season, contributing three goals and two assists across 36 appearances.
During his time at Motherwell, Just had a strong debut season, earning a nomination for PFA Scotland’s Premiership Player of the Year and winning Motherwell’s Player of the Season award. His profile further rose during the World Cup, where he scored three goals. His opening goal against Iran was nominated for Goal of the Tournament, and he also became the first All White to score a brace in a single World Cup match.
Impact at Swansea City
Swansea City’s head coach, Vitor Matos, expressed enthusiasm about Just’s arrival, highlighting his versatility. Matos noted that Just can play in multiple positions, which will benefit the team. He added that Just performed well throughout the recruitment process and had a brilliant performance at the World Cup.
Ben Stevens, Swansea City’s sporting director, also commented on the acquisition, stating that Just would enhance the team’s attacking quality. Stevens remarked that Just had a “phenomenal World Cup with New Zealand,” which helped introduce him to the global football stage after a strong season with Motherwell. Stevens believes Just’s profile aligns well with Matos’ and the club’s footballing style, presenting an exciting opportunity for all involved parties.
Just himself conveyed his excitement about the move, describing it as something he has aspired to throughout his career. He acknowledged the Championship as a tough league but believes it will suit his playing style. He looks forward to contributing to the team and achieving something special with his new teammates.
New Zealanders in the Championship
Just’s move adds to a growing number of New Zealand players in the Championship. Other New Zealanders currently in the league include defender Liberato Cacace at Wrexham and goalkeeper Max Crocombe at Millwall. Defender Tyler Bindon also spent a year on loan with Sheffield United in the league.
Both Just and Stamenić received praise for their performances in the recent FIFA World Cup. Just’s three goals, including two against Iran and one against Belgium, made him the highest-scoring Kiwi in the tournament’s history. His spectacular volley that opened the scoring against Iran was nominated by FIFA for the best goal of the tournament.
Swansea City finished 11th in the EFL Championship standings last season.
Read Also
Source: rnz.co.nz
