Meet the new faces for 2020/21: Part 1

Callum McManaman

Grant Brebner has brought in a number of new signings ahead of the 2020/21 season, since being appointed Head Coach in August.

The Scotsman continues to prepare his new-look squad for the upcoming A-League campaign which kicks off at AAMI Park on January 2 against Brisbane Roar.

Brebner’s ideas began to take shape in Qatar during Victory’s AFC Champions League campaign, where it progressed from Group E following a memorable win over FC Seoul.

We take a look at some of the new faces in Victory’s 2020/21 squad…

Jake Brimmer

The former Liverpool Academy player made 60 A-League appearances for Perth Glory before joining Melbourne in October.

Brimmer will play a creative role at the heart of Victory’s midfield and will threaten from set pieces.

The 22-year-old made his Victory debut against Beijing FC and converted two penalties in the recent AFC Champions League campaign.

Ben Folami

One of two loan signings made by Brebner, Folami will spend the 2020/21 A-League season at AAMI Park.

As a versatile striker, the Olyroo can play anywhere across the front line and has a habit of running at defenders with the ball at his feet.

Folami opened his Victory account in Doha, lifting the ball over the Chiangrai United goalkeeper with an impressive one-touch finish.

Callum McManaman

The former Premier League player signed for Victory in October following his departure from English Championship side Luton Town.

The 29-year-old started in four of Victory’s five AFC Champions League games in Doha, including a full 90 minutes against FC Seoul.

McManaman believes he will provide attacking experience from a wide position this season.

Nick Ansell

After a spell in South Korea’s K League with Jeonnam Dragons and Gyeongnam FC, Ansell returned to Melbourne for a third spell with the club.

Ansell, a graduate of Victory’s youth system, will offer defensive assurance having already made 78 A-League appearances in blue and white.

The 26-year-old featured in every match in Doha and played a full 90 minutes in three Group E fixtures.

Gianluca Iannucci

Iannucci’s inclusion in Victory’s AFC Champions League squad was fairly understated, but the youngster made a big impression in his first outing for the club.

Fifteen minutes into his debut, Iannucci tried his luck and beat the Beijing goalkeeper from range.

Iannucci joined Victory from Melbourne City in November and will be keen to make his first A-League appearance under Brebner.