Wanderers stars Andreu and Castelen released in mass clearout

Western Sydney Wanderers will be without the services of semi-final hero Romeo Castelen and Spanish import Andreu next season after the club today announced the departure of six players from their roster.

Romeo Castelen was one of six players released by the Western Sydney Wanderers this week. Source: Getty Images

Castelen, Andreu, Alberto, Golgol Mebrahtu, Matt Sim and marquee striker Federico Piovaccari have left the club after their contracts were not renewed by the Wanderers.

It could be a very different Western Sydney side next season with Mark Bridge, Nikolai Topor-Stanley and Dario Vidosic also rumored to be set to depart the A-League Grand Final runners-up.

Bridge is believed to be considering a move to Asia as is Topor-Stanley, who was the recepient of a massive $3 million offer from Chinese club Beijing Guoan in December.

While marquee man Dario Vidiosic has another year to run on his contract, Fairfax Media reports the star midfielder will be allowed to leave on a free transfer if another club makes an offer.

Dutchman Romeo Castelen departs the Wanderers after two seasons with the club that saw the winger play 53 matches in the A-League, AFC Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup and FFA Cup, and score 11 goals.

Only our second ever hat-trick in club history. Romeo Castelen take a bow #WSWhttps://t.co/50li3ohbVq — WS Wanderers FC (@wswanderersfc) April 25, 2016

The 2014-2015 Members’ Player of the Year will be best remembered for his hat-trick in the memorable 5-4 semi-final win over Brisbane Roar.

“I was happy I could play a big part and show the people in Australia – and especially in Western Sydney - my talent and my ability. To get respect from the fans was unbelievable,” Castelen said.

“It was because of Popa that I came to this club, we worked together for two years and I respect him as a man, a leader and a coach.

“It’s been a great journey, I really enjoy this club, I enjoyed my time here and now we move on.”

Midfielder Andreu joined from Racing Santander in Spain, scoring three goals in his 30 matches for the Wanderers.

 

“If I think about everything, not just as a footballer but as a person and as a dad, my season at the Wanderers has been the best in my life. Popa has been the best coach of my career,” Andreu said.

 

“I’m going to miss the atmosphere and my friends in the squad and all the staff. I cannot say just one thing I will miss because everything was close to perfect.”