Melbourne City have signed experienced midfielder Taylor Ray ahead of the 2026/27 Ninja A-League season.
The 25-year-old joins the reigning Premiers and Champions with more than 100 Ninja A-League appearances and four Championships and three Premierships to her name.
Ray broke through at Sydney FC as a teenager and quickly established herself as one of the competition’s leading midfielders.
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Her standout 2021/22 campaign saw her named in the PFA Team of the Season before earning a maiden Matildas call-up and making her senior international debut against Spain in June 2022.
Ray spent the 2024/25 season with Central Coast Mariners, helping the club claim its first Ninja A-League Championship.
“I’m really excited to be joining Melbourne City and becoming part of a Club that has consistently set such high standards,” Ray said.
“I’ve been fortunate to experience some success throughout my career, and I’m hungry to continue that with City.
“There’s so much quality in this squad and I’m looking forward to contributing in every way I can.
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“The opportunity to compete for trophies domestically and in Asia is really exciting, and I can’t wait to get started with the team.”
The versatile midfielder can operate across several midfield and defensive roles and adds experience and defensive quality to City’s squad as they prepare to compete domestically and in Asia.
“Taylor has been one of the most consistent midfielders in the competition for a number of years and we’re delighted to welcome her to Melbourne City,” Melbourne City Director of Football Michael Petrillo said.
“She’s technically strong, intelligent in possession and gives us flexibility with her ability to play several different roles.
“Taylor also knows what it takes to win in this competition. That experience and mentality will be crucial as we continue to set high standards and compete for trophies across all competitions.”
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Ray becomes City’s fourth new recruit of the off-season following on from the deals which have seen Cortnee Vine, Melina Ayres and Avaani Prakash all arrive at Casey Fields.
Michael Matricciani’s side head into the new campaign looking to defend both the Premiership and Championship crowns but will have to do so without star striker and Matilda Holly McNamara, who is one of four players to have moved overseas following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.
