Melbourne City have signed Young Matildas midfielder Avaani Prakash for the 2026/27 Ninja A-League season.
The 19-year-old joins the reigning Premiers and Champions after spending last season with Central Coast Mariners, having previously played for Western United.
Prakash has made 41 Ninja A-League appearances since making her professional debut in November 2023, while also representing Australia at Junior Matildas and Young Matildas level.
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She was part of the Young Matildas squad at the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup earlier this year.
Prakash adds further depth to Michael Matricciani’s midfield as City prepare to defend their Premiership and Championship titles and compete in a third consecutive AFC Women’s Champions League campaign.
Prakash said she was excited by the opportunity to join the reigning champions.
“Melbourne City has consistently set high standards in women’s football in Australia, so I’m excited to join the Club and be part of that environment,” Prakash said.
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“I am looking forward to challenging myself at the highest level, continuing to develop my game and making the most of the opportunity at City. I’m excited to see what I can achieve with the Club.”
“I’m looking forward to getting to work with my new teammates and the coaching staff, and I’ll be doing everything I can to contribute to another successful season for the Club.”
Melbourne City Director of Football Michael Petrillo said the club had been monitoring Prakash for some time.
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“We’re always keeping a close eye on the best emerging talent in Australian football, and Avaani is a player who has impressed us for some time,” Petrillo said.
“She’s already gained valuable experience at A-League level and within Australia’s junior national teams, and we believe she has all the qualities to make a strong contribution to our squad this season.
“Just as importantly, at only 19 there’s still enormous potential for Avaani to continue developing her game, and we believe our environment is the perfect place for her to take that next step.”
