City announced on Tuesday they have ventured into the eSports world by signing Melbourne-based FIFA player Marcus Gomes. 

Gomes is off to London this week and will compete in the FIFA Interactive World Cup Grand Final as the only Australian player among 32 finalists from around the globe. 

The 20-year-old is the third eSports player to be signed by a CFG club, alongside Kieran Brown (Manchester City) and Christopher Holly (New York City). 

“I started playing FIFA 2006 when I was nine, and I never could have imagined that the game would be where it is today, or that I would be signing a professional eSports contract with a club like Melbourne City," Gomes said.

“I have followed City for the last few years and I am really looking forward to wearing the City blue shirt at this year’s tournaments.”

Scott Munn, Melbourne City CEO, added: “We know that many of our younger fans are playing eSports regularly, and interest in the industry is growing in Australia and globally. With 16 million people playing FIFA worldwide, and the competitive FIFA scene taking shape, it is the right time for Melbourne City to move in to eSports.

“We see a huge amount of potential and ambition in Marcus. He is a huge football fan, has proven success as a player, and is passionate about representing Melbourne City and engaging with our fans.”