Marco Tilio

Tilio was born on 23 August 2001 in Hurstville, a suburb in Southern Sydney,{{cite web |title=Olyroo Profile: Tilio revelling in last-minute Olympic call-up {{!}} MyFootball |url=https://www.myfootball.com.au/news/olyroo-profile-tilio-revelling-last-minute-olympic-call |website=MyFootball |language=en |date=19 July 2021 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=9 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230609115353/https://www.myfootball.com.au/news/olyroo-profile-tilio-revelling-last-minute-olympic-call |url-status=live }} to Michael and Melina Tilio. Shortly after birth, he was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, which required a month-long hospital stay before his discharge. At the age of six weeks, he returned to the hospital due to the after-effects of hydrocephalus, where he received ongoing monitoring by neurosurgeons until the age of one.{{cite web |title=Marco Tilio's 'rough start to life' & the 'oh my god' moment that sealed his midnight transfer |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/marco-tilio-a-league-melb-city-socceroos/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=6 June 2023 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=9 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230609115352/https://keepup.com.au/news/marco-tilio-a-league-melb-city-socceroos/ |url-status=live }}

At the age of six, Tilio began playing club football by joining Enfield Rovers in the junior leagues.{{cite web |title=Marco Tilio selected for Socceroos |url=https://www.footballcanterbury.com.au/news/marco-tilio-selected-for-socceroos/ |website=Football Canterbury |language=en |date=16 March 2023 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=9 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230609120547/https://www.footballcanterbury.com.au/news/marco-tilio-selected-for-socceroos/ |url-status=live }} During his childhood, Tilio soon moved with Leichhardt Saints, and later joined the youth system at APIA Leichhardt, initially with the juniors, before transitioning to the NPL youth side in 2011.{{cite web |title=Two CDSFA players selected in Socceroos |url=https://www.footballcanterbury.com.au/news/two-cdsfa-players-selected-in-socceroos/ |website=Football Canterbury |language=en |date=19 September 2022 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=9 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230609115353/https://www.footballcanterbury.com.au/news/two-cdsfa-players-selected-in-socceroos/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last1=Hatzoglou |first1=Max |last2=Pichaloff |first2=Alex |title=Socceroo origins: Every local club of the Australian FIFA World Cup players |url=https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/blacktown-advocate/sport/socceroo-origins-every-local-club-of-the-australian-fifa-world-cup-players/news-story/7834ccca8ca5b7fa1ebac316fbbcddc4?amp&nk=a2c0895a3bfc740aaee0fe8ef953b859-1686310187 |website=Daily Telegraph |publisher=The Goulburn Valley News |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230609112940/https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/blacktown-advocate/sport/socceroo-origins-every-local-club-of-the-australian-fifa-world-cup-players/news-story/7834ccca8ca5b7fa1ebac316fbbcddc4?amp&nk=a2c0895a3bfc740aaee0fe8ef953b859-1686310187 |archive-date=9 June 2023 |date=16 November 2022}} He further progressed to Sydney Olympic before finally earning an opportunity to play for his hometown club, Sydney FC.

Since joining the club in October 2015,{{cite web |title=Our Academy Success Stories |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/our-academy-success-stories |website=Sydney FC |publisher=KEEPUP |date=19 October 2020 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=13 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230513233131/https://sydneyfc.com/news/our-academy-success-stories |url-status=live }} Tilio signed his first professional contract, a one-year scholarship deal, with Sydney FC on 11 September 2018.{{cite web |title=Sydney FC Promote Five Youth Stars |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/sydney-fc-promote-five-youth-stars |website=Sydney FC |publisher=KEEPUP |date=11 September 2018 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=26 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220926072928/https://sydneyfc.com/news/sydney-fc-promote-five-youth-stars |url-status=live }}

Tilio made his NPL senior debut on 10 March 2019, and scored the opening goal, for Sydney FC NPL side in a 2–1 win over Hakoah.{{cite web |title=Young Sky Blues Off The Mark In 2019 |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/young-sky-blues-mark-2019 |website=Sydney FC |date=10 March 2019 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=27 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220927011558/https://sydneyfc.com/news/young-sky-blues-mark-2019 |url-status=live }} Four months later, on 7 July, he scored his 4th and 5th goal of the season, with two goals in the span of two minutes, to win the game 3–1 against Rockdale Ilinden.{{cite web |title=Young Sky Blues Shine At Lambert Park |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/young-sky-blues-shine-lambert-park |website=Sydney FC |publisher=KEEPUP |date=7 July 2019 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=3 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210403130818/https://www.sydneyfc.com/news/young-sky-blues-shine-lambert-park |url-status=live }} His contributions proved pivotal as Tilio helped Sydney FC clinched survival for another season following a crucial win over Sydney United.{{cite web |title=Sydney FC Secure NPL Men's 1 Status For Another Year |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/sydney-fc-secure-npl-mens-1-status-another-year |website=Sydney FC |publisher=KEEPUP |date=22 July 2019 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=5 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221005192647/https://sydneyfc.com/news/sydney-fc-secure-npl-mens-1-status-another-year |url-status=live }}

In November, he was announced in the Sydney FC Youth squad for the 2019–20 Foxtel Youth League.{{cite web |title=Sydney FC Confirm Foxtel Y-League Squad |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/sydney-fc-confirm-foxtel-y-league-squad |website=Sydney FC |publisher=KEEPUP |date=5 November 2019 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=21 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230521100024/https://sydneyfc.com/news/sydney-fc-confirm-foxtel-y-league-squad |url-status=live }} During the competition, Tilio scored a hat-trick, his second of the week following his first during international duty, in an 8–3 win against Newcastle Jets.{{cite web |title=Hat-Tricks A Habit For Tilio |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/hat-tricks-a-habit-tilio |website=Sydney FC |publisher=KEEPUP |date=19 November 2019 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=7 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221007033758/https://sydneyfc.com/news/hat-tricks-a-habit-tilio |url-status=live }} After progressing to the final, Tilio would score two goals, including a brace, to win the Y-League after a 5–1 victory over Melbourne Victory.{{cite web |title=Young Sky Blues Storm Out To Record Breaking Championship |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/young-sky-blues-storm-out-record-breaking-championship |website=Sydney FC |publisher=KEEPUP |date=31 January 2020 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=3 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210403111521/https://www.sydneyfc.com/news/young-sky-blues-storm-out-record-breaking-championship |url-status=live }} He was awarded the FYL Golden Boot for his tally of 11 goals.{{cite web |title=The big winners from the Dolan Warren Awards 2020 |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/alessandro-diamanti-claims-johnny-warren-medal/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=10 September 2020 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=1 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230501081107/https://keepup.com.au/news/alessandro-diamanti-claims-johnny-warren-medal/ |url-status=live }}

On 21 May 2019, Tilio made his professional debut in the AFC Champions League in a 4–0 loss against Kawasaki Frontale at Jubilee Stadium.{{cite web |last1=Rugari |first1=Vince |title=Sydney FC cop surreal 4-0 loss in AFC Champions League dead rubber |url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/soccer/sydney-fc-cop-surreal-4-0-loss-in-afc-champions-league-dead-rubber-20190521-p51ptn.html |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230609154742/https://www.smh.com.au/sport/soccer/sydney-fc-cop-surreal-4-0-loss-in-afc-champions-league-dead-rubber-20190521-p51ptn.html |archive-date=9 June 2023 |language=en |date=21 May 2019}} In September, he was promoted to the senior squad alongside Ryan Teague and Harry Van der Saag, ahead of the 2019–20 A-League season.{{cite web |title=Sydney FC Promote Three Youngsters |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/sydney-fc-promote-three-youngsters |website=Sydney FC |publisher=KEEPUP |date=3 September 2019 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=28 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221228104708/https://sydneyfc.com/news/sydney-fc-promote-three-youngsters |url-status=live }} His time with the seniors was described by Adam Le Fondre as "a rollercoaster," but proclaims its normal with youngsters.{{cite web |last1=Gordon |first1=Moira |title='Some days he was awful' - Marco Tilio former teammate lifts lid on new Celtic signing's ascent |url=https://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/celtic/some-days-he-was-awful-marco-tilio-former-teammate-lifts-lid-on-new-celtic-signings-ascent-4204004 |website=Scotsman |date=30 June 2023}}

On 23 February 2020, Tilio scored on his A-League debut, to secure a 3–1 win over Central Coast Mariners and send his side 13 points clear at the top of the table.{{cite web |title=Sydney FC Young Guns Deliver The Points In Gosford |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/sydney-fc-young-guns-deliver-points-gosford |website=Sydney FC |publisher=KEEPUP |date=23 February 2020 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=5 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221005193757/https://sydneyfc.com/news/sydney-fc-young-guns-deliver-points-gosford |url-status=live }} On 7 September, after making 6 appearances and scoring 1 goal, Tilio departed Sydney FC to find better playing time, rejecting the contract offer made by Steve Corica.{{cite web |title=Marco Tilio To Leave Champions |url=https://sydneyfc.com/news/marco-tilio-leave-champions |website=Sydney FC |publisher=KEEPUP |date=7 September 2020 |access-date=9 June 2023 |archive-date=6 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221006224932/https://sydneyfc.com/news/marco-tilio-leave-champions |url-status=live }}

On 21 September 2020, Melbourne City announced that Tilio had signed a three-year contract with the club,{{cite news|url=https://www.melbournecityfc.com.au/news/melbourne-city-fc-signs-talented-youth-trio|website=Melbourne City FC|date=21 September 2020|accessdate=21 September 2020|title=Melbourne City FC signs talented youth trio|archive-date=2 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201002211651/https://www.melbournecityfc.com.au/news/melbourne-city-fc-signs-talented-youth-trio|url-status=live}} having been assured for more first-team opportunities.{{cite web |last1=Radbourne-Pugh |first1=Lucas |title=Official: City sign talented A-League trio |url=https://www.ftbl.com.au/news/official-city-sign-talented-a-league-trio-553672 |website=FTBL |date=22 September 2020}} He received the number 23 for the 2020–21 A-League season that commenced at the start of 2021 instead of late-2020 due to COVID.{{cite web |title=All of the players signed for A-League 2020/21 Season {{!}} MyFootball |url=https://www.myfootball.com.au/news/all-players-signed-hyundai-a-league-season-202021 |website=MyFootball |language=en |date=9 October 2020}}{{cite web |title=2020/21 A-League squad numbers locked in! |url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/202021-a-league-squad-numbers-locked |website=Melbourne City |date=30 November 2020}}

Following Adrián Luna's suspension and Andrew Nabbout's absence from injury, Tilio made his Melbourne City debut on 3 January 2021, in a starting appearance against Adelaide United.{{cite web |last1=Lynch |first1=Michael |title=Melbourne City fall to Adelaide as skipper Jamieson sees red |url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/soccer/melbourne-city-fall-to-adelaide-as-skipper-jamieson-sees-red-20210103-p56rf3.html |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en |date=3 January 2021}} On 5 April, he scored his first goal, 3 minutes after emerging from the bench, to net the winning goal in the 83rd minute and secure a 3–2 away win over Wellington Phoenix.{{cite web|url=https://www.a-league.com.au/news/wellington-phoenix-v-melbourne-city-match-report-scores-highlights-video|title=Late Tilio goal wins five-goal thriller for City against Phoenix|last=Comito|first=Matthew|date=5 April 2021|accessdate=5 April 2021|website=A-League|archive-date=5 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210405155114/https://www.a-league.com.au/news/wellington-phoenix-v-melbourne-city-match-report-scores-highlights-video|url-status=live}}{{cite web |title=Phoenix come from behind twice before losing to Melbourne City |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/football-wellington-phoenix-come-from-behind-twice-before-falling-to-melbourne-city/OEM4EUBJDH76RDOZMLQBVXWZAU/ |website=The New Zealand Herald |language=en-NZ |date=3 July 2023}} On 17 April, after being brought off the bench in the 63rd minute in his first Melbourne Derby, Tilio recorded two assists and won a penalty that helped Jamie Maclaren complete his sixth hat-trick in his league career.{{cite web |last1=Jackson |first1=Ed |title='Some nights they don't go in for me. Tonight they did...' |url=https://www.ftbl.com.au/news/some-nights-they-dont-go-in-for-me-tonight-they-did-563491 |website=FTBL |date=18 April 2021}}{{cite web |title=Match Report: City 7-0 Victory |url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/match-report-city-7-0-victory |website=Melbourne City |date=18 April 2021}} By full time, City won 7–0 against Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park, breaking the record for the biggest win in derby history and tying with Adelaide United for the biggest win in A-League history.{{cite web |last1=D’Urbano |first1=Nick |title=City equal record for biggest ever A-League win with 7-0 local derby thrashing |url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/football/city-equal-record-for-biggest-ever-aleague-win-with-70-local-derby-thrashing/news-story/8ffcfd833afad155deebc03a758d286a |website=news.com.au |publisher=NCA NewsWire |date=17 April 2021}} The win also led their rival's coach Grant Brebner to resign soon after.{{cite web |last1=Lynch |first1=Michael |title=Brebner out after Victory's 7-0 humiliation against Melbourne City |url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/soccer/maclaren-hits-five-as-traore-sees-red-in-city-derby-romp-20210417-p57k35.html |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en |date=17 April 2021}}

With Nabbout's frequent injuries, initially a groin followed by a leg injury, led Tilio to make more frequent appearances in the starting line-up.{{cite web |last1=Chadwick |first1=Justin |title='I wasn't good enough for Glory' - Maclaren notches ton |url=https://www.ftbl.com.au/news/i-wasnt-good-enough-for-glory---maclaren-notches-ton-564192 |website=FTBL |date=6 May 2021}}{{cite web |title=Melbourne City continue charge to finals with Adelaide thrashing |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/football/a-league/melbourne-city-continue-charge-to-finals-with-adelaide-thrashing/news-story/57200c01f0aa8730f7d0656d1c3a9cb0 |website=Fox Sports |language=en |date=13 May 2021}} On 22 May, Tilio assisted the winning goal to Luna in a 1–0 win against Central Coast Mariners, leading to City's first silverware in the club's history after winning the A-League Premiership Plate.{{cite web |last1=D'Urbano |first1=Nick |title=Melbourne City claim Premiers Plate with tense Mariners win |url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/football/melbourne-city-claim-premiers-plate-with-tense-mariners-win/news-story/a291fb4cba1b8a5a0e6983aa790ae14e |website=news.com.au |publisher=NCA NewsWire |date=22 May 2023}} Tilio registered 4 assists and 1 goal at the end of the regular league fixtures,{{cite web |title=Tilio: Starting is a huge reward |url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/tilio-starting-a-huge-reward |website=Melbourne City |date=3 June 2021}} in which he started in 8 of 20 league appearances.{{cite web |title=A-League gamble paying off for Tilio |url=https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7314656/a-league-gamble-paying-off-for-tilio/ |website=The Canberra Times |language=en-AU |date=26 June 2021}} In the A-League semi-final on 20 June, Tilio assisted the opening goal, a cross towards Stefan Colakovski, and scored a brace within a minute later to secure a 2–0 victory over Macarthur.{{cite web |last1=Marchetti |first1=Christian |title='Quietly a Rolls Royce': 5 lessons for the A-League Grand Final |url=https://www.ftbl.com.au/news/quietly-a-rolls-royce-5-lessons-for-the-a-league-grand-final-566231 |website=FTBL |date=21 June 2021}}{{cite web |title=Melbourne City books A-League grand final rematch against Sydney FC |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-06-20/a-league-semi-final-melbourne-city-beats-macarthur-fc/100216152 |website=ABC News |language=en-AU |date=20 June 2021}}

During the Grand Final, Tilio garnered media attention, in what was described as a "wow moment to be worshipped," when he trapped the ball whilst sliding, twisting his knee behind his back to stop the ball before it went out in the touchline before getting up and continuing the City attack.{{cite web |last1=Kemp |first1=Emma |title=Marco Tilio's A-League moment of magic the mark of a sellable star |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/jun/28/marco-tilios-a-league-moment-of-magic-the-mark-of-a-sellable-star |website=The Guardian |date=27 June 2021}} His performances helped City secure a 3–1 win over his former side Sydney FC, and was given their first A-League Championship in their history.{{cite web |title=Melbourne City win maiden A-League championship with grand final defeat of Sydney FC |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/jun/27/melbourne-city-win-maiden-a-league-championship-with-grand-final-defeat-of-sydney-fc |website=The Guardian |publisher=Australian Associated Press |date=27 June 2021}} At the end of the season, Tilio was award the club's Rising Star accolade,{{cite web |title=Player of the Year: Good crowned City's best |url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/player-year-good-crowned-citys-best |website=Melbourne City |date=29 June 2021}} and was nominated among four other A-League players, including teammate and eventual winner Connor Metcalfe for the Harry Kewell Medal.{{cite web |last1=Ross |first1=Julius |title=🏅 2021 PFA Players' Awards Nominees Revealed |url=https://pfa.net.au/news/2021-pfa-players-awards-nominees-revealed/ |website=Professional Footballers Australia |date=11 August 2021}}

On 20 October 2021, Tilio signed a two-year extension with Melbourne City, tying him with the club until the 2023–24 season.{{cite web |title=Marco Tilio signs two-year contract extension |url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/marco-tilio-signs-two-year-contract-extension |website=Melbourne City |date=20 October 2021}} The early stages of the season saw Tilio registering only ten passes and one key chance in the opening league match and an early missed penalty in an FFA Cup match against Hume City.{{cite web |last1=Schultz |first1=Adam |title=Season 2021/22 a year of growth or stagnation for Marco Tilio? |url=https://www.theinnersanctum.com.au/season-2021-22-a-year-of-growth-or-stagnation-for-marco-tilio/ |website=The Inner Sanctum |date=21 November 2021}}{{cite web |title=Hume City FC v Melbourne City |url=https://www.australiacup.com.au/match/hume-city-fc-v-melbourne-city-australia-cup-02-12-2021/2259164#!/stats |website=Australia Cup |publisher=Australia Cup Match Centre |language=en |date=19 November 2021}} Despite being replaced by Florin Berenguer in recent matches, Tilio kept his place in the starting line-up before the Christmas break following a 2–2 Melbourne Derby draw on 18 December where he got an assist.{{cite web |title=Match Report: City 2-2 Victory |url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/match-report-city-2-2-victory |website=Melbourne City |date=18 December 2021}} On 5 January 2022, in the FFA Cup quarter-final, Melbourne City were knocked out from the competition after losing on penalties following a 0–0 draw against Wellington Phoenix at the end of extra time. Tilio missed the deciding penalty for City when Alex Paulsen saved his shot before Nicholas Pennington scored the winning penalty for the Phoenix to win it 4–3 in the shootout.{{cite web |title=Melbourne City v Wellington Phoenix |url=https://www.australiacup.com.au/match/melbourne-city-v-wellington-phoenix-australia-cup-06-01-2022/2262097 |website=Australia Cup |publisher=Australia Cup Match Centre |language=en |date=5 January 2022}}{{cite web |title=FFA Cup match review: Wellington Phoenix vs. Melbourne City |url=https://wellingtonphoenix.com/news/ffa-cup-match-review-wellington-phoenix-vs-melbourne-city |website=Wellington Phoenix |date=5 January 2022}}

In the subsequent match four days later, Tilio scored his first goal for the season in a 3–3 draw to Western Sydney Wanderers.{{cite web |last1=D'Urbano |first1=Nick |title=Melbourne City 3 vs Western Sydney Wanderers 3 |url=https://keepup.com.au/a-league-men/fixtures/melbourne-city-vs-western-sydney-wanderers-09-01-2022/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=9 January 2022}} Following his return from international duty, on 18 February, Tilio assisted twice, to both Mathew Leckie and Carl Jenkinson, in a 3–0 win against Newcastle, sending his side to the top of the ladder.{{cite web |title=Socceroos in the A-League: Red-hot City trio steal the show {{!}} Socceroos |url=https://www.socceroos.com.au/news/socceroos-a-league-city-stars-down-jets |website=Socceroos |language=en |date=19 February 2022}} In the next match against Central Coast Mariners, just four days later, he was involved in a controversy after a VAR decision gave his side a penalty when a Mariners' defender brought down Tilio outside the box. Maclaren converted the penalty to give his side the equaliser.{{cite web |title='Game has been ruined': Top ref faces axe as TWO penalty errors leave A-League in 'disbelief' |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/football/a-league/game-has-been-ruined-top-ref-may-be-axed-after-two-penalty-errors-leave-aleague-in-disbelief/news-story/d3a221f761d525600db5c9b33b499d63 |website=Fox Sports |language=en |date=23 February 2022}} Up until the 74th minute, the game was held 2–2 when Tilio scored the winning goal to secure a 3–2 win at home.{{cite web |last1=Davutovic |first1=David |title=Melbourne City 3 vs Central Coast Mariners 2 |url=https://keepup.com.au/a-league-men/fixtures/melbourne-city-vs-central-coast-mariners-22-02-2022/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=22 February 2022}}{{cite web |title=VAR farce overshadows City's Mariners win |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/var-farce-overshadows-citys-mariners-win/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=22 February 2022}} Following the match, the Football Australia (FA) referee department admitted that referee Shaun Evans got it wrong in the two controversial decisions that cost the Central Coast Mariners, and said that City's penalty should not have been awarded due to the secondary contact in the area being "negligible" as well a penalty that should have been awarded to the Mariners in the 87th minute due to a foul on Lewis Miller that was not given.{{cite web |title=Football Australia admits to refereeing blunders in Mariners' ALM loss |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-02-23/football-australia-admits-to-refereeing-blunders/100852916 |website=ABC News |language=en-AU |date=22 February 2022}}{{cite web |title=FA admits to ALM refereeing blunders |url=https://thewest.com.au/sport/soccer/var-refereeing-under-spotlight-in-alm-c-5802179 |website=The West Australian |language=en |date=22 February 2022}}{{cite web |title='We're still shocked': VAR calls leave Mariners 'gutted' |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/live-a-leagues-on-tuesday-february-22-goals-highlights-scores-video-reaction-analysis/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=22 February 2022}}

On 2 April, Tilio scored twice in five minutes off the bench in a 6–0 win against Wellington.{{cite web |last1=Kallos |first1=Dimitri |title=Melbourne City a step closer to premiership after decimating Phoenix |url=https://neoskosmos.com/en/2022/04/04/sport/football/melbourne-city-a-step-closer-to-premiership-after-decimating-phoenix/ |website=NEOS KOSMOS |language=en |date=4 April 2022}} On 18 April, Tilio scored two goals in his second AFC Champions League appearance, securing a City's first win in a continental competition in a 3–0 victory over United City.{{cite web |title=Socceroos on the scoresheet: Dougall and Tilio net in key victories {{!}} Socceroos |url=https://www.socceroos.com.au/news/socceroos-scoresheet-dougall-and-tilio-net-key-victories |website=Socceroos |language=en |date=19 April 2022}}{{cite web |title=Melb City win 3-0 against United in AFC |url=https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7703764/melb-city-win-3-0-against-united-in-afc/ |website=The Canberra Times |language=en-AU |date=18 April 2022}} In the returning away match on 30 April, Tilio made his 50th appearance for City and scored his third brace of the month, after a Maclaren pass led him for a close-ranged finish to goal, in a repeated 3–0 victory against United City,{{cite web |title=Match Report: United City 0-3 Melbourne City |url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/match-report-united-city-0-3-melbourne-city |website=Melbourne City |date=30 April 2022}} but just missing out on the knockout stages on goal difference despite finishing the group stage undefeated.{{cite web |title=City shrug off ACL exit to focus on Premiers Plate race |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/city-shrug-off-acl-exit-focus-on-alm/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=2 May 2022}}{{cite web |title=A-League Stats: Marco Tilio |url=https://aleaguestats.com/A-League_25Players_2199.html |website=ALeagueStats}}

After leading City to their second consecutive Premiership,{{cite web |last1=D'Urbano |first1=Nick |title=Melbourne City have secured back-to-back A League Premiers Plates |url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/football/melbourne-city-have-secured-backtoback-a-league-premiers-plates/news-story/60cf733d561415b386433140301a836f |website=news.com.au |publisher=NCA NewsWire |date=10 May 2022}} Tilio scored the equaliser in the semi-final second leg against Adelaide United, leading them into extra time where Maclaren scored the winning goal to send his side to the Grand Final against Western United.{{cite web |title=Melbourne City beat Adelaide to book ALM grand final against Western United |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/may/22/melbourne-city-beat-adelaide-to-book-alm-grand-final-against-western-united |website=The Guardian |publisher=Australian Associated Press |date=22 May 2022}} He played in the final where City lost 2–0 in front of 22,495 at AAMI Park.{{cite web |title=Western United stun Melbourne City 2-0 to win first A-League Men's title |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/may/28/western-united-stun-melbourne-city-2-0-to-win-first-a-league-mens-title |website=The Guardian |publisher=Australian Associated Press |date=28 May 2022}}{{cite web |title=A-League Men's Grand Final: Western United defeats Melbourne City in historic decider |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/football/a-league/aleague-mens-grand-final-western-united-defeats-melbourne-city-in-historic-decider/news-story/c419322816185efe145367ee7ae69e7f |website=Fox Sports |language=en |date=29 May 2022}} Tilio finished his second breakout season under Patrick Kisnorbo with 8 goals and 8 assists in all competitions.{{cite web |last1=Pagonis |first1=Antonis |title=Pondering Marco Tilio's Grand Final role for Melbourne City |url=https://www.theinnersanctum.com.au/pondering-marco-tilios-grand-final-role-for-melbourne-city/ |website=The Inner Sanctum |date=26 May 2022}}{{cite web |title=Socceroos at Home: Maclaren, Leckie, Tilio and Metcalfe seek history {{!}} Socceroos |url=https://www.socceroos.com.au/news/socceroos-home-maclaren-leckie-tilio-and-metcalfe-seek-victory |website=Socceroos |language=en |date=27 May 2022}} He was nominated for the Harry Kewell Medal for the second time, losing it to Toulouse midfielder Denis Genreau.{{cite web |last1=Ross |first1=Julius |title=Seventeen football stars up for PFA Players' Awards |url=https://pfa.net.au/player-awards/seventeen-football-stars-up-for-pfa-players-awards/ |website=Professional Footballers Australia |date=20 May 2022}}

Ahead of the 2022–23 A-League, Tilio was delegated back to the bench in City's season opener against champions Western United. During a press conference on his decision to bench Tilio, Kisnorbo made it clear that the winger, despite being a Socceroo, didn't guarantee playing time and told Tilio he had to work to earn his place.{{cite web |last1=Harrington |first1=Anna |title=City A-League coach to Tillio: Just because you're a Socceroo doesn't mean you start |url=https://www.ftbl.com.au/news/city-a-league-coach-to-tillio-just-because-youre-a-socceroo-doesnt-mean-you-start-586209 |website=FTBL |date=8 October 2022}}{{cite web |last1=Schultz |first1=Adam |title=Kisnorbo's Tilio comments show ruthless side to City's high standards |url=https://www.theinnersanctum.com.au/kisnorbos-tilio-comments-show-ruthless-side-to-citys-high-standards/ |website=The Inner Sanctum |date=10 October 2022}}{{cite web |last1=Austin |first1=Jack |title=The 'worst thing' Socceroo hopeful can do to keep dwindling World Cup dream alive |url=https://sport.optus.com.au/news/socceroos/os49394/socceroos-2022-world-cup-squad-marco-tilio-daniel-arzani-gegenpod |website=Optus Sport |date=20 October 2022}} This repeated in the next round against Brisbane Roar as Tilio was instead brought on at stoppage time due to Taras Gomulka red card leading to a change in tactics. Kisnorbo defended his decisions saying, “Marco was supposed to come on – it is what it is. I’ll pick the players and coach the players and do the subs what’s relevant to the game. I thought that was relevant.” adding, "I’ll do my best to coach the team in the best way possible, and do what’s right for Melbourne City."{{cite web |title='It's a yellow': Kisnorbo reacts to City send-off as young gun banned for Melbourne Derby |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/live-brisbane-roar-melbourne-city-round-2-a-league-men-2022-23-scores-goals-highlights-reaction-analysis/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=15 October 2022}}{{cite web |title=Arzani shines while Tilio's World Cup hopes hang by a thread |url=https://www.espn.com.au/football/story/_/id/37632976/arzani-shines-tilio-world-cup-hopes-hang-thread |website=ESPN |language=en |date=18 October 2022}} With only 20 minutes in the domestic league, Tilio's chances of making it to the World Cup squad for Australia was described by reporters and pundits as "hanging by a thread" although Leckie ensured him to concentrate and work hard.{{cite web |title=Leckie's message to City team-mate Tilio amid World Cup 'noise' |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/tilio-urged-to-shut-out-world-cup-noise/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=26 October 2022}}

In the following three games, Tilio registered a goal each in the games against Wellington Phoenix and Perth Glory, helping his side to a 2–2 draw,{{cite news |title=A-League: Wellington Phoenix rescue late draw against top-of-the-table Melbourne City at AAMI Park |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/sport/2022/10/a-league-wellington-phoenix-rescue-late-draw-against-top-of-the-table-melbourne-city-at-aami-park.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230703121228/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/sport/2022/10/a-league-wellington-phoenix-rescue-late-draw-against-top-of-the-table-melbourne-city-at-aami-park.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=3 July 2023 |website=Newshub |language=en |date=31 October 2022}} and securing a 4–0 win respectively.{{cite web |title=Maclaren brace inspires City's Glory thumping |url=https://thewest.com.au/sport/perth-glory/maclaren-fires-city-past-glory-in-alm-win-c-8768225 |website=The West Australian |language=en |date=5 November 2022}}{{cite web |title=Arnold's 'big headache' after City's Roos trio flex their muscles |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/arnolds-big-headache-after-citys-roos-trio-flex-their-muscles/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=6 November 2022}} However, he would initially miss out on the final World Cup squad in November,{{cite web |title=Melbourne City coach tips World Cup exclusion will motivate Marco Tilio |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/football/world-cup/melbourne-city-coach-tips-world-cup-exclusion-will-motivate-marco-tilio/news-story/c140e4f9dcec20c6d26030c01e231a2f |website=Fox Sports |language=en |date=11 November 2022}} before being called-up just days later.{{cite web |title=Australia fly in Marco Tilio amid doubts over Martin Boyle's World Cup fitness |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/nov/15/australia-fly-in-marco-tilio-amid-doubts-over-martin-boyles-world-cup-fitness |website=The Guardian |language=en |date=15 November 2022}} On 7 January 2023, Tilio earned the Man of the match by scoring the opening goal with a remarkable solo run from the halfway line. Later, he assisted Maclaren's 10th goal of the season, contributing to a resounding 4–0 victory over Western United.{{cite web |title=Marco Tilio showered in praise after Melbourne City performance |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/live-blog-a-leagues-central-coast-mariners-adelaide-united-sydney-fc-wellington-phoenix-melb-city-western-united-january-7-goals-highlights-scorers-reaction-highlights-analysis/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=7 January 2023}}{{cite web |last1=Harrington |first1=Anna |title='Really ridiculous': City stars seem destined for overseas |url=https://www.ftbl.com.au/news/really-ridiculous-city-stars-seem-destined-for-overseas-589560 |website=FTBL |date=8 January 2023}} He repeated this performance on 25 February, during a league match against Sydney FC, Tilio dribbled from his team's half of the pitch to score a goal from outside the box, increasing the lead to 2–0. In the 30th minute, Tilio went on to assist Maclaren's brace before the match concluded with a 3–2 victory for City.{{cite web |title=Tilio ready 'to produce magic' overseas - but City boss warns: 'he doesn't need to rush' |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/tilio-maclaren-lift-city-past-sydney-fc-in-alm-win/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=25 February 2023}} As March came to a close, Tilio's goal tally reached 5, along with numerous assists, solidifying his belief that he was ready for European football as he announced his intention to depart Melbourne by the end of the season.{{cite web |last1=Clark |first1=George |title=Socceroos' Tilio eager to test himself overseas |url=https://www.ftbl.com.au/news/socceroos-tilio-eager-to-test-himself-overseas-592414 |website=FTBL |date=23 March 2023}}

On 10 April, Tilio scored twice in a 4–0 win over Wellington Phoenix, separating City by 7 points ahead of second-place Adelaide.{{cite web |title=Maclaren firing as City charge towards ALM premiership |url=https://www.perthnow.com.au/sport/soccer/maclaren-tilio-star-as-city-down-10-man-phoenix-c-10306044 |website=PerthNow |language=en |date=10 April 2023}} In the final round on 28 April, Tilio scored twice again, including the winning goal in the 93rd minute, to help City make a 3–2 comeback against Western Sydney Wanderers,{{cite web |title=Wanderers' last-gasp loss creates potential for 'something that's never happened' in Finals history |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/city-snatch-dramatic-win-over-wanderers-in-alm/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=28 April 2023}} leading his side to their third consecutive Premiership Plate – becoming the first club to ever do so.{{cite web |title=Isuzu UTE A-League Round 26 Talking Points: Moment that earned a standing ovation from rival fans |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/isuzu-ute-a-league-round-26-talking-points-strange-sydney-fc-curse-that-threatens-to-turn-fatal/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=1 May 2023}}{{cite web |title=HISTORY MAK3RS: City crowned ALM Premiers for record-breaking third consecutive time |url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/history-mak3rs-city-crowned-alm-premiers-for-record-breaking-third-consecutive-time |website=Melbourne City |date=16 April 2023}}{{cite web |last1=Lynch |first1=Joey |title=Melbourne City quietly make history with third-straight A-League title |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2023/apr/17/melbourne-city-quietly-make-history-with-third-straight-a-league-title |website=The Guardian |date=17 April 2023}} Tilio also became the first A-League Men player to win the title four consecutive times since he had won it with Sydney FC in 2019–20.{{cite web |title=Former coach explains 'cheat' tactic that saw Tilio 'tear up' as a teenager at Sydney FC before City switch |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/a-league-finals-melbourne-city-marco-tilio-socceroos-preview-tickets/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=12 May 2023}} He was named April nominee for Young Footballer of the Year.{{cite web |title=Marco Tilio named April nominee for Young Footballer of the Year |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/a-league-marco-tilio-young-footballer-of-year-nominee-april-finals-tickets-city-sydney/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=11 May 2023}} In the A-League semi final, Tilio scored his 20th goal for City after securing a 4–0 win (5–1 in aggregate) against Sydney FC.{{cite web |last1=Rayson |first1=Zac |title=Horror tackle leaves Sydney FC title dream in jeopardy |url=https://www.codesports.com.au/football/aleague-finals-penalty-controversy-in-sydney-fc-11-draw-with-melbourne-city/news-story/af296012d133305c63b4a867a0b2a15d |website=Code Sports |language=en |date=19 May 2023}} He played his last game for the club on 3 June, in the 6–1 Grand Final loss to Central Coast Mariners at CommBank Stadium.{{cite web |title=Melbourne City FC 1-6 Central Coast Mariners (3 Jun, 2023) Final Score |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/match/_/gameId/669266 |website=ESPN |language=en |date=3 June 2023}}

On 30 June 2023, Tilio signed a five-year contract with Scottish club Celtic,{{cite web |title=Marco Tilio joins Celtic FC in record-breaking transfer |url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/20230630-marco-tilio-departs |website=Melbourne City |date=30 June 2023}} after completing a reported transfer in excess of £1.5 million.{{cite web |title=Socceroos' Marco Tilio secures Celtic transfer |url=https://www.espn.com.au/football/story/_/id/37938408/soccer-socceroos-marco-tilio-secures-transfer-scottish-side-celtic-fc |website=ESPN |language=en |date=30 June 2023}}{{cite web |title=Socceroo Tilio seals Celtic switch, ALM transfer record |url=https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/8254279/socceroo-tilio-seals-celtic-switch-alm-transfer-record/ |website=The Canberra Times |language=en-AU |date=30 June 2023}} The transfer fee paid was the highest ever for a player in A-League, breaking the Australian soccer transfer fee record, set by the sale of Tilio's teammate Jordan Bos in the same month.{{cite web |title=Marco Tilio to Celtic: How Melbourne City broke Aus transfer record - again |url=https://keepup.com.au/news/a-league-marco-tilio-transfer-celtic-fc-scotland-analysis/ |website=KEEPUP |language=en-AU |date=30 June 2023}}

On 1 February 2024, Tilio returned to the A-League Men, signing a loan deal with Melbourne City for the remainder of the 2023–24 season.{{cite web|url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/20240201-tilio-returns|title=Melbourne City FC welcomes back fan favourite Marco Tilio|website=Melbourne City|date=1 February 2023}} On 4 July, the club announced that Tilio's loan would be extended for the following campaign.{{Cite web |date=4 July 2024 |title=Star attacker re-joins Melbourne City |url=https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/20240704-marco-tilio-returns-on-loan/ |access-date=9 July 2024 |website=Melbourne City}}

Tilio began his international career with the Young Socceroos in 2019, where he was called up to the Australia squad for the 2019 AFF U-18 Youth Championship.{{cite web|url=https://www.aseanfootball.org/v3/wp-content/uploads/match_result/u19/2019/playerslist/Australia.pdf|title=Australia Squad for the 2019 AFF U-18 Championship|accessdate=2 April 2021|publisher=ASEAN Football Federation|archive-date=6 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210506024722/https://www.aseanfootball.org/v3/wp-content/uploads/match_result/u19/2019/playerslist/Australia.pdf|url-status=live}} At age 17, Tilio played his first international game against the Vietnam U-20s in the 2019 AFF U-18 Youth Championship group stage where he scored a hat trick in the 1st, 34th and 90th minute.{{cite web|url=https://www.aseanfootball.org/v3/wp-content/uploads/match_result/u19/2019/M12.pdf|title=Match Summary: Vietnam U18 v Australia U18|date=9 August 2019|accessdate=2 April 2021|publisher=ASEAN Football Federation|archive-date=6 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210506025034/https://www.aseanfootball.org/v3/wp-content/uploads/match_result/u19/2019/M12.pdf|url-status=live}}

On 22 July 2021, Tilio scored his first goal for the Olyroos in a 2–0 win against Argentina with his second touch after coming on as a substitute in the 80th minute.

On 20 November 2022, Tilio was named in Australia's squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup after Martin Boyle was ruled out of the tournament due to injury.{{cite web |title=Martin Boyle withdrawn from Socceroos' FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ squad |url=https://www.socceroos.com.au/news/martin-boyle-withdrawn-socceroos-fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022tm-squad |website=Socceroos |date=20 November 2022 |access-date=20 November 2022 |archive-date=20 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221120110303/https://www.socceroos.com.au/news/martin-boyle-withdrawn-socceroos-fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022tm-squad |url-status=live }}

{{updated|15 April 2024}}{{cite web|url=https://globalsportsarchive.com/people/soccer/marco-tilio/307936/|title=Marco Tilio – Domestic Career Summary|access-date=23 July 2021|publisher=Global Sports Archive|archive-date=23 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210723004001/https://globalsportsarchive.com/people/soccer/marco-tilio/307936/|url-status=live}}

Melbourne City

• A-League Premiership: 2020–21, 2021–22, 2022–23{{cite AV media | date = 28 April 2023 | title = Melbourne City vs. Western Sydney Wanderers | type = Television production | language = English | url = https://www.paramountplus.com/shows/a-league-men/video/XCCbh5pPClOrv1rLRixGEAO9JaKmWdVw/full-match-replay-melbourne-city-vs-western-sydney-wanderers/ | access-date = 7 May 2023 | time = 2:26:30 | location = Australia | publisher = Paramount+}}
• A-League Championship: 2020–21

Sydney FC

• A-League Premiership: 2019–20
• Y-League: 2019–20

Celtic

• Scottish Premiership: 2023–24{{citation needed|date=June 2024}}

Australia U20

• AFF U-19 Youth Championship: 2019{{cite web|url=https://www.aseanfootball.org/v3/wp-content/uploads/match_result/u19/2019/M34.pdf|title=MAS U18 v AUS U18|website=ASEAN Football Federation|accessdate=24 August 2021|archive-date=19 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210119115054/https://www.aseanfootball.org/v3/wp-content/uploads/match_result/u19/2019/M34.pdf|url-status=live}}

Individual

• A-Leagues All Star: 2022{{cite news|url=https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7747208/alm-young-guns-get-shot-against-barcelona/|title=ALM young guns get shot against Barcelona|first=Anna|last=Harrington|date=20 May 2022|access-date=20 May 2022|website=The Canberra Times|archive-date=2 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221002204305/https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7747208/alm-young-guns-get-shot-against-barcelona/|url-status=live}}
• PFA A-League Team of the Season: 2022–23{{cite news|url=https://www.narrominenewsonline.com.au/story/8213793/citys-bos-leads-pfa-a-league-men-team-of-the-season/|first=Steve|last=Larkin|title=City's Bos leads PFA A-League Men team of the season|website=Narromine News|date=29 May 2023|access-date=29 May 2023|archive-date=29 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230529115719/https://www.narrominenewsonline.com.au/story/8213793/citys-bos-leads-pfa-a-league-men-team-of-the-season/|url-status=live}}

{{Reflist}}

• {{CelticFC|players/marco-tilio}}
• {{Soccerway|marco-tilio/522694}}
• {{AOC profile|marco-tilio}}
• {{Olympics.com profile|marco-tilio}}
• {{Olympedia}}

{{Melbourne City FC squad}}

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{{Australia men's football squad 2020 Summer Olympics}}

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{{Australia squad 2023 AFC Asian Cup}}

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{{Y-League Golden Boot}}

{{2022–23 A-League Men PFA Team of the Season}}

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{{DEFAULTSORT:Tilio, Marco}}

Category:2001 births

Category:Living people

Category:Australian people of Italian descent

Category:Sportspeople of Italian descent

Category:Australian men's soccer players

Category:Men's association football forwards

Category:A-League Men players

Category:A-League Men All-Stars

Category:Sydney FC players

Category:Melbourne City FC players

Category:Celtic F.C. players

Category:National Premier Leagues players

Category:Footballers at the 2020 Summer Olympics

Category:2022 FIFA World Cup players

Category:Olympic soccer players for Australia

Category:Soccer players from Sydney

Category:2023 AFC Asian Cup players

Category:Australian expatriate men's soccer players

Category:Australian expatriate sportspeople in Scotland

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Scotland

Category:21st-century Australian sportsmen