Adelaide United’s squad overhaul has continued with Erin Healy, Ella Tonkin and Matilda McNamara all departing the Ninja A-League to pursue opportunities in Europe.
The Reds confirmed all three players had been offered new contracts but elected to continue their careers overseas, while McNamara leaves for an undisclosed transfer fee after departing while still under contract.
Striker Healy leaves Adelaide after two seasons, having joined the club from Portuguese side Clube de Albergaria ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.
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The 25-year-old forward made 41 appearances and scored 12 goals during her time with the Reds and claimed plenty of individual honours during her time at the club including the 2025 Dianne Alagich Medal, RAA Members’ A-League Women Player of the Year, the 2026 A-League Women Golden Boot, and the 2026 Red Army A-League Women Player of the Year.
“I am incredibly grateful for my time at this club,” said Healy, who was a contender for the 2025-26 Julie Dolan Medal.
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“Over the past two years, I’ve grown tremendously as both a player and a person, and I’m thankful for every opportunity I was given along the way.
“This club welcomed me from day one and truly became a home away from home. I’ll always cherish the memories and relationships I’ve built here, and I wish the club nothing but success in the future.”
Central defender Tonkin also heads to Europe after spending seven seasons with Adelaide.
Having joined the club from the Football SA NTC program in 2019, the 23-year-old defender made 84 appearances and scored five goals in Red and will now continue her career overseas.
“It has been an absolute privilege to be a part of this incredible club,” said Tonkin, who’s next destination remains unknown.
“To represent the badge of your hometown is something special and I’ve made memories I will cherish forever. I want to say a huge thank you to all my teammates and the staff that have helped me develop as a player and person over the years.
“I can truly say I’ve made friends for life. Adelaide United will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’ll continue to follow along with admiration as I take this next step in my journey. I love you, reds.”
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Finally, central defender McNamara also departs for Europe, with Adelaide receiving an undisclosed fee for the contracted defender as she embarks on the next stage of her career.
The 27-year-old defender made 77 appearances and scored five goals, becoming a strong presence on and off the pitch across multiple seasons representing the South Australian side, with Portugal mooted as a possible destination.
“I’m so grateful and proud to have played for this club and thank them so much for every opportunity they have given me,” said McNamara, who re-joined Adelaide in 2024 following a spell overseas.
“Whilst sad to be leaving, it’s the right time for a new challenge and look forward to what the next chapter holds.”
Adelaide Football Director Mitch van Gellekom said the club was proud to see the trio take the next step in their careers.
“Erin, Ella and Matilda have all made outstanding contributions to Adelaide United and we thank them for everything they have given to the Club,” van Gellekom said.
“As a Club, we want to be a genuine pathway for players to develop, perform, and earn opportunities at the highest level. Seeing players take that next step into Europe is something we should be proud of, even when it means saying goodbye.
“We wish Erin, Ella and Matilda every success in this next chapter, and they will always be part of the Adelaide United family.”
