Mabil’s Return: More Than Just a Player for the Socceroos
Awer Mabil, a familiar face in Australian football, has been recalled to the Socceroos squad, bringing not only his on-field experience but also a valuable off-field presence. At 30 years old, the Spain-based winger’s inclusion in the 26-man squad for the upcoming FIFA Series games against Cameroon and Curacao was a significant talking point. This marks his return to the national setup after his last camp in September 2024 under former coach Graham Arnold.
Having yet to feature under the current Socceroos mentor, Tony Popovic, Mabil is eager to make his mark. He sees these upcoming matches as crucial opportunities to press his case for a spot in Australia’s FIFA World Cup squad. The first test comes in Sydney on Friday night against Cameroon, followed by a clash with Curacao in Melbourne next Tuesday.
“I’m better now, 100 per cent, mentally and as a player,” Mabil stated on Monday, reflecting on his current form. “I know what I’m capable of, and also what I’ve done in the past, (but) that doesn’t matter. I’m only trying to be as present as I can.” He expressed his readiness to contribute when his chance arises, stating, “I feel like I can do something for the country when my chance comes, and I’ll keep doing my best.”
The winger conveyed his gratitude for the recall. “I’ve missed it, so it was nice to be considered again,” he said. “It’s something that I have to enjoy… and it’s something you realise, when you’re away from it, how special it is to represent your country.”
Mabil, who currently plies his trade for Spanish second division club CD Castellon, has a unique journey to Australian football. Born in Kenya to South Sudanese parents, his family relocated to Australia when he was ten years old. His Socceroos debut came in 2018, and his impact extended beyond the pitch when, in 2023, he was named Young Australian of the Year for his co-founding of Barefoot to Boots, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving health, education, policies, and gender equality for refugees.
A Guiding Hand for the Next Generation
Mabil views himself as a “brother” figure to emerging talents with similar backgrounds, such as Tanzania-born Nestory Irankunda and Guinea-born striker Mohamed Toure. Both Irankunda and Toure, who are currently playing in the English Championship, are anticipated to be part of the Socceroos’ World Cup squad, which kicks off in June.
Mabil reflected on the challenges faced by young players from African backgrounds breaking into the Australian national team. “Coming up as a young African player, there was no real blueprint… for seeing an African play for the Socceroos, maybe playing also a major role in the team. It was not something that was normal,” he explained.
His personal ambition was to overcome these barriers. “My biggest goal was to push through no matter what, and if there was kind of a blueprint that I laid for Nes and Toure, and I’m sure there are going to be more coming up, then I’ve done my job, and I’ll continue to do my job, because everybody’s on a journey.”
As a more experienced player, Mabil aims to provide guidance on fundamental aspects of their development. “As an older brother, I try to advise them on the foundation of things because we can’t let them lose who they are, but there are certain things that have to be aligned in order to be yourself respectfully for everybody.” This mentorship role highlights Mabil’s commitment to not only his own performance but also to fostering the growth and success of future generations of Australian talent. His presence in the squad offers a dual benefit: experienced leadership on the field and invaluable guidance off it, particularly for players navigating similar cultural and professional pathways.
