Joe Gauci says he’s ready for the challenge ahead after joining Aston Villa.
The goalkeeper completed a Deadline Day move from Adelaide United and has now linked up with the squad after participating in the Asian Cup with Australia.
In his first interview with club media, the 23-year-old spoke about his motivation to make the move to the Premier League.
He said: “The initial conversations I had with some of the footballing staff and coaches were really positive.
“The level of detail that they went into about my game I could really tell how much they’d analysed me as a goalkeeper and as a person as well.
“The areas they went into about how I can improve as a goalkeeper were really detailed. I feel like I can come here and take my game to a different level.
“The Premier League is the pinnacle of world football and that excites me: the opportunity to work with world-class players and the number one goalkeeper in the world.
“He’s (Emi Martinez) someone who’ll be fantastic to learn from. There are a lot of positives and at my age it’s the right time for me to make this jump. I’m ready for the challenge.”
Gauci made over 75 appearances for hometown team Adelaide United, who handed him a senior debut in 2021.
The Australian, who has been capped by his country, is embracing his new adventure in England.
“One of the really positive things about joining the club is that challenge,” he said of playing in the Premier League.
“It’s a big step up from Australian football but it’s something I’m looking forward to. There may be a bit of adjustment, especially in a new country, different weather, different people, different cultures.
“At the age that I’m at, it’s the right challenge for me and I’m going to give myself every opportunity to succeed.”
