Spanish former Villarreal goalkeeper embracing dream Hong Kong opportunity
Gianni Cassaro joined the district club in January but despite an ‘incredible experience’ he is unsure of his future beyond this season
The injury misfortune that befell Yapp Hung-fai back in October ultimately presented an opportunity for Gianni Cassaro to belatedly fulfil his dream of playing football outside Spain.
“At the beginning it was a bit daunting, because I didn’t know what was awaiting me here but I had nothing to lose,” said goalkeeper Cassaro, who has recorded three clean sheets from eight appearances since he joined Eastern in January.
After stalwart Yapp damaged knee ligaments playing for Hong Kong neither of his Eastern deputies, Liu Fu-yuen nor Wilson Chun Ko, seized chances to impress, leaving Manu Torres, the head coach, to recruit Cassaro, who had been without a club since helping Sabadell gain promotion to Spain’s third tier last season.
Despite savouring an “incredible experience” and speedily adapting to his new environment, “because the people here have been so good to me”, the 33-year-old Cassaro is uncertain about his future beyond a contract that expires at the end of the season.
His partner Judit, who he will marry in July, has remained in Spain with the couple’s dog and two cats.
“I would like to stay … but my partner has her job, we have our pets and our house, so we have to speak,” Cassaro said.