Santalab has quickly moved on from the Grand Final, but still continuing to do what he loves: play football.

And as part of a trio of now-ex A-League stars, it’s a bold play from Dandy, who are coached by former Young Socceroo Ante Moric.

Leijer, Valeri and Santalab

“I was absolutely delighted to see Carl signing with us. I didn’t like playing against Carl because he’s a fantastic player.

“I’ve been lucky to get to know Carl a little better. He’s a top person, a great man who did so much for our game and achieved so much for our game.

“To be in the same team as Carl is a bit surreal,” Santalab added.

“Sometimes I turn around and look at my midfield and see Carl Valeri, then before Adrian Leijer got injured I’d see him too!

“I’ve got to pinch myself and realize this is actually happening.

“An absolute honor to play with Carl and Adrian and we really hope we can help the club survive this relegation scrap.

“It’s a league with many fantastic players with A-League potential.

"I’m excited for the kids here because there’s a third A-League team coming in next season and potentially with Team 11 another A-League team in years to come.”

Santalab’s professional career is over after Glory’s penalty shootout loss to Sydney FC last month drew the curtain on his time as a professional.

The forward’s shootout miss at Optus Stadium is all part of a footballer’s ups and downs.

The player knows he can’t change the past, but is looking to the future.

And that’s all about helping to keep Dandy City in the top flight of Victorian football, with Moric’s men 11th in the 14 team competition. 

“I just wanted to put that behind me as quickly as possible,” he says when reflecting on his grand final day last month.

“I am happy. I’m really enjoying my football. I love going to training,” Santalab adds.

“I love helping the other boys out and being a leader, and I’ve always wanted to live in Melbourne.

“And what a great club with great people. They’d do anything to help you and make you feel at home. I couldn’t have asked for anything more.”

Santalab’s career has come full circle.