1. FC Köln have signed another player who featured at this year’s FIFA World Cup. Midfielder Paul Okon-Engstler has joined from A-League side, Sydney FC and has signed a deal with FC until 30th June 2030.
FC Managing Director, Thomas Kessler said: “We are really pleased that Paul has decided on a move to 1. FC Köln. He is a young player with a lot of potential, and someone who has developed really well in the past few years. With his impressive performances for Sydney FC, he earned a place in the Australian national team and was able to showcase the development path he has been on at the World Cup.
Paul has great footballing qualities, has a high-level of intensity and brings the readiness to work on himself every day to continue his development. This is exactly the sort of character that fits well to our current path. We are convinced that he will improve our central midfield with his qualities and give our squad an added option. At the same time, we want to give him the best possible opportunities to develop and to make the next step together.
Paul Okon-Engstler is excited about his move to Köln: “FC is a club with a huge history, with incredible fans and stadium. I can’t wait to play there and finally get on the pitch with the team. For me, it’s exactly the right step in my career.”
Born in Oostende, Belgium, the Australian made the move from Australia to the Club Brugge academy at the age of 14. Afterwards, he joined SL Benfica and their under-19s. He featured for their reserve side and in the UEFA Youth League, before he returned to his homeland and Sydney FC in the previous summer. He made 27 appearances in the A-League last season, as well as playing in three cup games. The 21-year-old was an ever-present for Australia in their World Cup campaign, starting three of those matches. His father is Assistant Coach for the national team.
