Melbourne City have re-signed young guns Daniela Galic and Naomi Chinnama for the 2023-24 Liberty A-League season as they look to ride the wave of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Young Matildas pair Galic, 17, and Chinnama, 19, are both back for the upcoming campaign, which begins in October, after Matildas and World Cup fever gripped Australia.
The Matildas – boasting a squad that entirely came through the A-Leagues – sensationally reached the semi-finals in an historic performance, while record TV audiences tuned in throughout the tournament held in Australia and New Zealand.
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That run has inspired a new generation, while this coming Liberty A-League season will see the Sydney Derby held at Allianz Stadium on October 14. The Liberty A-League Pass also means all youths aged 16 or younger are able to watch the regular campaign FREE.
“It’s great having the momentum of the World Cup shifting over to the A-Leagues. So many Matildas have honed their skills here which has allowed them to compete on the world stage,” said Chinnama, who is preparing for her third season with City.
“Now it’s a rising platform for people to see new and upcoming players which has definitely made me more driven to give my all for Melbourne City.
“I can’t wait to get out there this season and pick up from where we left off, with silverware as our primary focus. I’m looking forward to meeting some new teammates and welcoming some familiar faces back into the squad.”
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Chinnama starred for City in 2022-23 as they reached the Elimination Final before losing a dramatic penalty shoot-out against rivals Melbourne Victory.
She played a career-high 16 games, starting 14 of those.
It was a breakout season for teenage sensation Galic, who is one of the most highly-rated young Australians in the game and flourished in her debut professional campaign.
Galic scored two goals and supplied three assists in 17 appearances.
“I really enjoyed my first season and it really helped having a great team and coaching staff at
the club. I learnt a lot and am really looking forward to getting back on the pitch again,” Galic said.
“I decided to re-sign at City because I feel it provides me with the best environment to continue to develop and the professionalism at the club is unmatched. I can’t wait to get back into preseason training with my team and hopefully build towards a successful season.”
City head coach Dario Vidosic added: “We’re very pleased to have both Dani and Naomi return for the upcoming season.
“In what was her first year in professional football, Dani was quick to show us all her incredible talent and her desire to learn and keep improving her game. She shows composure beyond her years, is technically elite and a really important member of our team.
“Naomi is coming off a really impressive season at City and we’re excited to see her continue to
develop into a strong and reliable player for our team.”
