Returning Halifax Star Joao Morelli Inks New Deal

The Halifax Wanderers have confirmed that Brazilian maestro Joao Morelli is not only reactivated on the club’s roster ahead of tomorrow’s match, but has also signed a new deal that with the club.

The terms of Joao’s new contract weren’t disclosed beyond that it includes a club option for the 2024 Canadian Premier League season.

“We’re delighted to welcome Joao back into the group after a significant layoff,” said Halifax Wanderers Sporting Director Matt Fegan. “His recovery has been a mixture of patience and perseverance working his way back toward full fitness, and he deserves full credit through a tough journey. His return has given everyone around the club a lift to see him back on the pitch in Halifax.”

The 27-year-old will be available for the club’s coastal clash against Pacific on July 11, who enter Wanderers Grounds at the top of the table. Morelli has proven potent against them before, with the creative attacker having tallied an incredible 20 goals in 34 appearances for the club three seasons ago.

Morelli’s last season was cut short when a knee injury required surgical intervention, stymying an MVP-defending campaign for the Wanderers talisman. A dazzling attacker, his playstyle looks to be a match made in heaven with new coach Patrice Gheisar, who’s front-foot attacking philosophy is starting to take hold out east.

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Joao flew into Halifax last week, making his return in a Wanderers U-23 match against Holstein Kiel, tallying an assist on the occasion.

While his previous contract also ran the length of the season, the new deal including an option for 2024 gives the club a great bit of flexibility – though the assumption is that the fast-footed Joao will impress once again.