Huddersfield Town have signed midfielder Jack Rudoni from AFC Wimbledon on a four-year contract for an undisclosed fee.
Rudoni began his career within Crystal Palace’s youth academy but was released at the age of 11 years-old, which led him to joining AFC Wimbledon where he rose through their youth ranks and made his senior debut in December 2019 in a 2-1 home win over Doncaster in League One.
The 21 year-old attacking midfielder since went on to score 17 goals and create eight assists in 106 senior appearances in all competitions across the last three seasons, although the Dons succumbed to relegation to League Two at the end of last season.
Rudoni’s performances however saw him voted Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year at AFC Wimbledon last season, in a campaign where he demonstrated versatility in playing as a defensive, centre, left and attacking midfielder plus as a forward.
Following confirmation of his departure to Huddersfield, Rudoni sent the following farewell message to AFC Wimbledon supporters:
I just wanted to send you all a message following the news that I am leaving the club this summer.
I have been at Wimbledon since the age of 11 and made my first team debut in December 2019 at the age of 18.
I have loved playing for this team and am proud and grateful of the relationship I have built with our fans, and will never forget the support you have given me as a young professional.
I am really looking forward to the next stage in my career at Huddersfield Town.
Thanks again and I look forward to seeing you all in the future when I come back to visit.
Rudi
Huddersfield’s Head of Football Operations, Leigh Bromby commented upon confirmation of Rudoni’s signing as he admitted that the club had held “a longstanding interest” in signing the 21 year-old so is “very happy” to finally sign him following discussions.
Explaining why the Terriers have swooped for Rudoni, Bromby continued: “There are not many players who have had the level of impact in a level as high as Sky Bet League One at just 20 as Jack had last season.
“He’s found a way to affect games and record some very impressive numbers for AFC Wimbledon.
“We still believe there is much more to come from him too, and our coaches are excited to work with him.
“He’s already got impressive technical skills and a real goal-scoring instinct, but we feel we can really add to his all-round game.”
Head Coach, Danny Schofield added that he has been impressed by Rudoni’s performances for AFC Wimbledon, having monitored his progress in recent seasons and believes that he “will add a lot of high-quality attributes to the team in the centre of the pitch.”
Schofield also singled out three particular qualities of Rudoni that will be of significant benefit to the senior squad as he added: “He has certain standout qualities – his ability to receive the ball and drive forward in particular. He’s also very engaged when the team is going forward and attacks the penalty area really well.”
Rudoni will wear the number 22 shirt this season at Huddersfield and could make his debut tomorrow (16 July) in a friendly away to Harrogate Town.
Rudoni’s competitive debut and home bow could take place against Burnley on Friday 29 July live on Sky Sports, with kick-off at 8pm BST in the opening match of 2022-23 Championship season.