There is no stopping Melissa Barbieri after the history-making Australian icon re-signed with Melbourne City for the 2024-25 Ninja A-League season.
Barbieri’s incredible professional career will extend into an historic 28th year after signing on for her eighth season as a City player.
The 44-year-old goalkeeper, who became the oldest Grand Finallist in Ninja A-League history last season, will continue in her dual role of player and assistant coach, supporting new boss Michael Matricciani at the reigning premiers.
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“Melbourne City is my home and I’m proud to be continuing my journey here. Every day I get to
live out my teenage dream of being a professional footballer,” said two-time A-Leagues champion Barbieri – who has also won a pair of Premierships.
“To wear this badge on a daily basis gives me a huge sense of pride. To have a chance to do it on a larger scale in the Asian Champions League is also another thing I can tick off my football bucket list.
“I believe in this team, and I’m grateful to be part of such a fantastic group of people as we push for success together.”
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Matildas great Barbieri is the longest-serving national league player in Australian history by quite some distance and has achieved almost everything in the game, including appearing at four FIFA Women’s World Cups.
She also captained the CommBank Matildas to AFC Women’s Asian Cup glory in 2010.
The 86-time Australia international started last season as City’s number two goalkeeper behind Canadian Lysianne Proulx but she was thrust back into the spotlight during the regular season before an injury Bárbara paved the way for Barbieri to start the 2023-24 Grand Final against eventual champions Sydney FC.
“Bubs is a legend of Australian football and a huge part of Melbourne City,” said City’s director of football Michael Petrillo.
“She’s the heart and soul of our Women’s football program, and an asset in many ways to the club as a whole, and we’re delighted to have her back for another season.”
In 2024-25, Barbieri will continue to mentor young keeper Sophia Varley and provide guidance to Spaniard Malena Mieres, who is preparing for her first season in Australia as City gear up for an historic AFC Women’s Champions League campaign.
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City head coach Michael Matricciani added: “We’re thrilled to have Melissa back with us for another season.
“Her experience, leadership, and passion for the game are invaluable to both the players and coaching staff.
“Her presence on and off the field continues to set the standard for our younger players, and we’re looking forward to what she’ll continue to bring this season, especially with the exciting challenges ahead in both the A-League and the Asian Champions League.”
