Matt Grimaldi's mind wanders to coach John Aloisi and tales of verbal abuse in Italy, as he unpacks the catalyst for Western United's resurgence.
United sit second with 41 points on the A-League Men ladder, one win away from their first top-six finish since they won the premiership in 2022.
Aloisi's name has been floated as an outside chance for the Matildas vacant permanent head coach position when his contract expires at the end of this season.
It is easy to see why he is attracting attention: a youthful Western's turnaround, coming after a 2023-24 season in which they finished four points above wooden spooners Perth Glory.
Grimaldi has enjoyed a breakout season, with the 21-year-old scoring four goals across 22 games.
The winger puts it down to former Socceroos striker Aloisi's inspiring words and coaching style.
"I've listened to him talk about his time in Italy, how it wasn't too great where he'd go in public and would get abused on the streets when he wasn't in good form," Grimaldi told AAP.
"He's also talked about how it was different in Spain where after (CA Osasuna) lost (the 2005 Copa del Rey final), the fans adored him because they hadn't made a final in years.
"To hear those types of stories and how he came back from his setbacks, it's good for a young player like me because we have a lot of ups and downs.
"It's good to hear from someone with experience, to know the downs don't last too long."
Grimaldi believes veteran recruit Hiroshi Ibusuki has also played a key part in the club's form, helping what was a stagnant attack in 2023-24 become more free flowing.
The 34-year-old Japanese striker departed Adelaide United in the off-season, after scoring 15 times.
Ibusuki came into the United set up when they were battered by early-season injuries to key midfielder Angus Thurgate and golden boot contender Noah Botic.
Ibusuki didn't get to play with fellow striker Botic until round three.
But since round eight, Aloisi's men have netted 41 times.
"Hiro (Ibusuki) is able to calm things down when it gets chaotic near the goal. If we need a goal late, early, or anytime, Hiro can come up really big," Grimaldi said.
"On the pitch, everyone's a lot calmer when going forward, because we know we have that presence up top.
"Botic was pretty much out the whole pre-season and we didn't have him to get that understanding of playing the double striker with Ibusuki.
"The full team is playing together and we haven't had too many injuries. That's the biggest thing that's clicked."
United face Western Sydney Wanderers away in a pivotal top-four clash on Sunday.
