The Newcastle Jets have confirmed the immediate departure of experienced defender Aleksandar Susnjar, with the club and player reaching a mutual agreement to terminate his contract.
Immediate Release Granted for Asian Opportunity
In an official statement released on Monday, the A-League club announced that the 30-year-old centre-back has been granted an immediate release to pursue opportunities elsewhere. The Newcastle Herald understands Susnjar is now seeking a playing opportunity in Asia, leveraging his extensive experience which includes caps for the Socceroos and a professional career across Europe.
Susnjar originally joined the Jets in 2024, signed by former coach Rob Stanton on a two-year deal. His arrival was intended to add significant experience and defensive solidity to Newcastle's backline. During the 2024/25 A-League season, he made 16 appearances, starting 13 matches, and was a crucial part of the squad that made history by winning the Australia Cup earlier this year.
Changing Fortunes Under New Coach
The towering defender's situation changed with the appointment of new head coach Mark Milligan. While Susnjar featured in the Jets' first five matches of the current campaign, his last appearance came in a 2-1 home defeat to Perth Glory on November 23 at McDonald Jones Stadium.
Since then, he has fallen down the defensive pecking order, behind emerging talents Mark Natta and Max Cooper. In total, the defender made 28 appearances for the Jets across all competitions, scoring one goal.
The club's statement paid tribute to his contributions, noting: "Aleksandar joined the Newcastle Jets in 2024 and made a total of 28 appearances for the Club, scoring one goal. Susnjar was a member of the Jets' 2025 Australia Cup triumph earlier this year." The statement concluded with well-wishes for Susnjar and his family, following the recent birth of his child.
Jets Look to Build on Winning Momentum
The departure comes as the Jets' first-team squad is building positive momentum. The team has climbed into the A-League's top six after securing back-to-back victories over Wellington Phoenix (3-1) and second-placed Sydney FC (2-0).
They now sit on 12 competition points and will aim to consolidate their position in the finals spots with a third consecutive win. Their next challenge is a Boxing Day clash against eighth-placed Macarthur FC (11 points) at McDonald Jones Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 7:35pm.
In related news, the Newcastle Jets' A-League Women's side is also in action this weekend. They will host second-placed Canberra United at No.2 Sportsground on Saturday (6pm kick-off), looking to bounce back from a 3-1 loss to league leaders Melbourne Victory. The women's team currently holds fourth position, with games in hand over the three teams above them on the ladder.
