Stellenbosch FC have strengthened their defensive ranks with the signing of Belgian centre-back Henri Stanic, who joins the club on a permanent transfer from Maltese Premier League outfit Balzan Football Club.
The 22-year-old arrives in the Cape Winelands after a standout 2023/24 campaign in Malta, where he featured in 28 league matches and contributed five goals – an impressive return for a central defender.
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Speaking from the club’s pre-season camp in Johannesburg, Stanic expressed excitement about the move and confidence in the vision at Stellies.
“I’m very grateful and excited to be here,” he said, speaking through the club's official website.
“The team has already welcomed me very well, and I’m looking forward to the season ahead.
“The project at Stellenbosch FC is what attracted me to come to South Africa. I spoke to several people at the club, and I really like the project that is being worked on.
“I’m also looking forward to playing in the domestic championship [the Betway Premiership] and to showcasing my talent in the country.
“I will fight for the badge and give 100% for the team. I am still young, and I have ambitions that I hope to achieve with the club.”
Stanic’s arrival marks another step in Stellenbosch’s bid to build on their recent progress in the Betway Premiership and further entrench themselves as one of the league’s most exciting and ambitious sides.
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The club is currently in the thick of its preparations for the upcoming campaign, and the addition of the physically imposing and goalscoring defender is expected to bolster head coach Steve Barker’s options at the back.
With youth on his side and the hunger to prove himself in a new league, Stanic will be one to watch as the 2024/25 season approaches.
Photo by Stellenbosch FC
