The Central Coast Mariners are pleased to announce the signing of Brazilian forward Marco Tulio, following his departure from Sporting Clube de Portugal.
The 24-year-old joins as the clubs last visa signing of the window, with the Brazilian coming to the Coast with high regard.
Beginning his career at Atlético Mineiro, Tulio debuted for the first team aged just 19. His promise saw interest from clubs in Europe from an early age, with European giants Sporting Clube de Portugal pouncing to bring him to Portugal.
He would sign a contract with them, including a release clause of 60 million euros.
Tulio would play 35 games for the clubs U23 and reserve grade sides, contributing eight goals during this time. He would also go on two loan spells, with an eye on development and first team football.
Belgium was the destination of his first loan spell, joining KSV Roeselare, where he played 17 matches and contributed one goal.
A loan move back to his native Brazil saw him continue to develop and grow as a footballer, playing two seasons with Serie B side CSA. 12 goals in 74 appearances highlights his strong performances for the club, before heading back to Portugal.
His talent and ability also saw him represent the Brazilian junior National team, where he lined up alongside new Central Coast Mariners teammate Matheus Moresche.
Mariners head coach Nick Montgomery is pleased to have gotten the signing of Tulio over the line, having been a long-time admirer of the Brazilian.
“We are delighted. Obviously, we work hard on our recruitment and Marco is a player that we identified a long time ago,” he said.
“We worked hard and with the help of his agent we managed to release him from his contract at Sporting. He is definitely going to add attacking power to the front line.”
He joins as the clubs last visa player for this season, with Montgomery excited by the group of international players currently signed with the club.
“Look at Beni Nkololo’s impact last season and all of the visa boys that have come in this year. They are all a young age, and we are bringing them in to hopefully develop them so that they can reach their full potential,” Montgomery said.
“They are exciting talents whose future is at the very top level.”
Tulio is ready to hit the ground running with under three weeks until the beginning of the A-League Men’s season, eager to be a part of the Mariners project.
“I was excited by the project that was proposed, and the technical team, Nick, Sergio and all of the coaches,” he said.
“I am coming into a team that is almost finished their pre-season so I am ready to join and participate with the team as soon as I can. I am excited to be here and ready to contribute to the team this season.”
Tulio and the rest of the Mariners will kick-off the 2022/23 A-League Men’s season against the Newcastle Jets on October 8th at Central Coast Stadium.
