Melbourne Victory’s American forward returns to NWSL

Liberty A-League Championship hopefuls Melbourne Victory have announced the departure of McKenzie Weinert, who is returning to the United States.

Weinert will head back to National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) outfit Seattle Reign on the back of her two-goal haul against Western Sydney Wanderers in Round 17.

“The club would like to thank McKenzie for her contribution and wish her all the best for the future,” Victory said in a statement.

PLAYER OF THE MONTH: Special send-off for departing Western star

The 25-year-old forward arrived in Melbourne from Seattle, where she had made two appearances for the Reign as a national team replacement player during the 2023 FIFA Men’s World Cup.

During her time with Victory, Weinert scored five goals in 17 Liberty A-League games.

She scored a double alongside Emily Gielnik as Victory crushed the Wanderers 4-0 last week.

Seattle Reign are set to open their NWSL campaign against Washington Spirit on March 18.