AC Oulu has bolstered its goalkeeper ranks with the signing of English shot-stopper Roco Rees on a one-year contract that includes a four-week trial period and a one-year option.
Rees, who developed through the Brighton youth academy and played in England’s competitive youth leagues, expressed his excitement about the move: “I’ve heard really good things about the club and the city, so I can’t wait to get started. My goal is to help the team finish as high as possible in the league and compete for the top spots. While in Oulu, I want to grow as both a player and a person.”
His connection to AC Oulu stems in part from his representation sharing ties with former AC Oulu goalkeeper Calum Ward. Rees acknowledged the smooth transition: “Cal and my agent said great things about the club, so it was an easy decision for me.”
The club’s goalkeeper coach, Jani Luukkonen, commented on the acquisition: “Roco’s name came up early in our search. His technical and tactical qualities match the profile we were looking for, and we’ve received only positive feedback about him as a person. I believe this move is the right next step for him in his career, and I look forward to working with him starting in November. Welcome to Oulu, Roco!”
Sports director Markus Heikkinen added: “We’ve gathered extensive information about Roco through videos and feedback from England. Based on that, he seems well-suited for the Veikkausliiga. The trial period allows us to evaluate him daily before making a final decision. I’m pleased that Roco seized this opportunity.”
Roco Rees AC Oulun maalivahtiosastolle! Tervetuloa Ouluun Roco!
Lue lisää:https://t.co/2LJ32K5HYO#ACOulu#Oulu#Laivastonsiniset#Veikkausliiga#OulunEnergia#OuluOnLaivastonsininen pic.twitter.com/QCiDeKhunx
— AC Oulu (@ACOulu) November 16, 2024
Who Are AC Oulo?
Initially formed as a collaboration of local clubs, AC Oulu aimed to revive top-tier football in the region. After early promotions to Veikkausliiga in 2007 and 2009, financial issues relegated the club in 2011, marking a decade in Ykkönen. Stability improved under key figures like Mika Nurmela and Markus Heikkinen, leading to a return to Veikkausliiga in 2021 after winning Ykkönen in 2020.
Recent years have been turbulent. Portuguese coach Ricardo Duarte guided the team to maintain league status in 2021 but was sacked in 2023 following poor results. Despite flashes of success, including a Finnish League Cup final appearance in 2023, managerial changes and inconsistent performances have plagued the club. Kostas Bratsos briefly managed the team in 2024 before his dismissal. AC Oulu finished the 2024 season in 9th place, narrowly avoiding relegation. Celebrating 20 years in 2022, the club continues to strive for stability and growth in Finnish football.
Site Opinion
Roco Rees’ signing reflects AC Oulu’s ambition to strengthen its squad with young, promising talents. His height, background in Brighton’s youth academy, and experience in competitive British leagues suggest he brings valuable qualities to the club. The inclusion of a trial period is a prudent move, ensuring a strong fit for both parties.
Rees’ enthusiasm for the opportunity, coupled with the club’s structured evaluation process, creates a foundation for mutual growth. Should his trial prove successful, he could become a pivotal figure for AC Oulu as they aim for a competitive Veikkausliiga season. Fans and staff alike will be eager to see how this promising partnership develops.
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