All Whites star Elijah Just secures move to Swansea City
All Whites midfielder Elijah Just has completed a transfer to Swansea City in the English Championship, following a notable performance at the recent Football World Cup. The move sees Just sign a three-year deal with the Welsh club, with an option for an additional 12 months. British media reported the transfer fee to be around £6 million (NZ$13.8 million).
Motherwell FC, Just’s former club in the Scottish Premiership, confirmed they received a club-record fee for the 26-year-old’s transfer. However, the exact amount will remain undisclosed based on the agreement with Swansea. Just expressed his sentiments to Motherwell FC on Instagram, stating the difficulty in articulating what the club meant to him.
World Cup Impact and Club Performance
Just’s profile significantly rose after scoring three goals at the World Cup. His opening goal against Iran was nominated for Goal of the Tournament, and he also became the first All White to achieve a brace in a single World Cup match. He scored two goals against Iran and one against Belgium, making him the highest-scoring Kiwi in tournament history.
Prior to his World Cup success, Just had a strong debut season with Motherwell, where he was shortlisted for PFA Scotland’s Premiership Player of the Year and received Motherwell’s Player of the Season award.
Swansea City’s head coach, Vitor Matos, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, highlighting Just’s versatility. Matos noted that Just can play in multiple positions, which will be a valuable asset to the team. Ben Stevens, Swansea City’s sporting director, echoed this sentiment, stating that Just would add quality to the attack across the pitch.
Stevens commented that Just had a “phenomenal World Cup with New Zealand,” which helped introduce him to the global football stage after his standout season with Motherwell. He believes Just’s profile aligns well with Matos’ and the club’s footballing style, presenting an exciting opportunity for all involved parties.
Joining Fellow All White and League Ambitions
Just will reunite with fellow All White Marko Stamenić at Swansea. Stamenić was a key player for Swansea last season, contributing three goals and two assists across 36 appearances. Just mentioned that he and Stamenić have communicated frequently, with Stamenić providing insights into the club and its playing style.
The move places Just among a growing contingent of New Zealand players in the Championship. Other Kiwis 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.
Swansea City competes in the EFL Championship, which is the second tier of English football. The club finished 11th in the standings last season. Just conveyed his eagerness for the move, stating, “I can’t wait, it’s something I’ve wanted to do in my whole career.” He added that he has watched many Championship games and believes the tough league will suit him well, looking forward to contributing to the team.
Just is set to wear the number 8 jersey for Swansea City.
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Source: rnz.co.nz
