Sydney FC have added a goalscorer to their ranks ahead of the 2026/27 A-Leagues campaign, signing Nigerian forward Oriola Sunday on a season-long loan from Japanese side RB Omiya.
The Sky Blues fought off competition from elsewhere to secure the 23-year-old’s services for the upcoming season and he will be available to feature for Sydney FC against SD Raiders in their Australia Cup quarter-final clash on Tuesday, August 18.
Sunday began his professional career at J2 League club Tokushima Vortis and was then signed permanently by RB Omiya following an initial loan deal having helped the Red Bull Group side win the J3 League title in 2024.
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The Nigerian striker has registered 20 goals and 10 assists during his time playing for Omiya and helped them finish 6th in J2 League last season, with Sydney FC Head Coach Patrick Kisnorbo believing his side have acquired a real gem.
“Oriola is a young striker with tremendous pace, excellent movement and a real willingness to work for the team,” Kisnorbo said.
“He gives us a quick and aggressive attacking option and he has shown in Japan that he can adapt to different styles of football.
“Just as importantly, he’s a terrific character who will fit in well with our squad and our culture.
“We’ve tracked him closely, Red Bull have a very high opinion of him and we’re excited to have him here at Sydney FC.”
Sunday is expected to lead the line for Kisnorbo’s side this coming season following the ACL injury sustained by Spanish striker Victor Campuzano and the departure of Patrick Wood, who joined Newcastle Jets following the expiration of his contract.
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Víctor Campuzano of Sydney FC
“I’m very happy to join Sydney FC and I can’t wait to get started,” Sunday said, after putting pen-to-paper on his deal.
“Playing in Japan has taught me so much. The football there is very technical, the players are disciplined and the level is very high.
“I feel I have improved every season and I’m excited to bring that experience with me to Australia.
“I’ve heard great things about Sydney FC and the ambitions of the club.
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“I look forward to playing alongside Takahiro Sekine and the ability to speak Japanese together will help us both settle in quickly.”
Sunday becomes Sydney FC’s fourth signing of the off-season after deals for Jake Hollman, Gabriel Popovic and the aforementioned Sekine were all completed over the course of the last two months.
