Melbourne City FC has finalised its Women’s squad for the 2026/27 season with the signing of experienced forward Princess Ibini, adding another major attacking weapon to the group.
The 26-year-old comes back to Australian football after a spell with Turkish heavyweights Beşiktaş. She brings extensive Ninja A-League experience and a strong record of success to Michael Matricciani’s side.
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Ibini debuted professionally at only 15 and has since become one of the league’s most accomplished attackers. She has scored 31 goals in 160 appearances, which places her sixth on the competition’s all-time appearances list.
Her domestic career also features three Premierships and three Championships, adding more title-winning experience to a City squad that claimed the double last season.
Her club form has carried onto the international stage, where the dynamic forward has earned eight caps for the Matildas and scored one goal.
Ibini is comfortable anywhere across the front third. She gives Matricciani another exciting attacking option alongside Cortnee Vine and Melina Ayres, adding further depth to an already formidable City frontline.
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She is expected to arrive in Melbourne in the coming days before joining her new teammates at training.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo described Ibini as an exciting final piece in the Club’s refreshed squad:
“To secure a player of Princess’ quality and experience at this stage is a fantastic outcome for our Women’s program”.
“She has an outstanding record in the Ninja A-League, knows what it takes to win trophies and brings further attacking quality and versatility to an already strong group.
“Princess’ signing completes what has been an exciting squad build, and we’re looking forward to seeing this group come together as we aim to build on last season’s success.”
Ibini said she was thrilled to be returning home and starting a new chapter at Melbourne City.
“I’m really happy to be back in Australia, and when the opportunity came to join Melbourne City, it was one I couldn’t pass up.”
“I’m excited to meet my new teammates, get into training and do everything I can to contribute to another successful season for City.”
“The success the Club has enjoyed in recent years has been incredible, and you can see the standards and ambition that exist within the Women’s program.
