Two key Ninja A-League players are set to continue their careers overseas after Melbourne City confirmed the departure of defender Taylor Otto and Sydney FC farewelled Golden Boot winner Riley Tanner.
Otto leaves City following the expiration of her contract after three trophy-laden seasons, while Panama international Tanner departs Sydney after a single campaign in Sky Blue.
The departures mark the latest overseas moves involving Ninja A-League stars ahead of the 2026/27 season.
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American centre-back Otto departs Melbourne City after making 82 appearances across all competitions, scoring six goals and helping the club enjoy one of the most successful periods in its history.
Since arriving ahead of the 2023/24 season, the 28-year-old played a central role in City’s run of three consecutive Premierships, the 2025/26 Ninja A-League Championship and the club’s run to the inaugural AFC Women’s Champions League Final.
Otto was named Melbourne City’s Player of the Year in 2024/25 and served as vice-captain across her final two seasons.
“I’ll always be incredibly grateful for my time at Melbourne City,” Otto said.
“From the moment I arrived, everyone at the Club made me feel at home. Over the past three seasons, I’ve been lucky enough to create memories and friendships that will stay with me forever.
“To have shared so much success with such an incredible group of players and staff has meant so much to me, and I’m so proud of everything we achieved together.
“Thank you to my teammates, coaches, staff and our amazing fans for all the support you’ve shown me. Melbourne City will always hold a very special place in my heart, and I’ll be cheering the Club on from afar.”
Meanwhile, Sydney FC have confirmed the departure of Panama international Riley Tanner after the winger finished as the club’s Golden Boot winner in her lone season with the Sky Blues.
The 26-year-old, who represented Panama at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup before joining Sydney ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, quickly established herself as one of the club’s most dangerous attacking players.
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Tanner thanked the club following the confirmation of her departure.
“My time at Sydney FC has been incredibly special and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to wear the Sky Blue shirt,” she said.
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“I’ve loved every minute of living in Sydney and playing alongside such an amazing group of teammates who made me feel welcome from day one.
“There is so much quality throughout this squad and I’m sure the club has a very bright future ahead. I wish everyone connected with Sydney FC nothing but success and I’ll be following from afar with great interest.”
Head coach James Slaveski praised Tanner’s impact during her season at the club.
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“Riley made a terrific contribution during her time with us and was rewarded by finishing as our Golden Boot winner,” he said.
“She’s a fantastic person to work with, a committed professional and someone who gave everything for the team every time she stepped onto the pitch.
“On behalf of everyone at Sydney FC, I’d like to thank Riley for everything she’s done for the club and wish her every success as she begins this exciting new chapter overseas.”
Sydney FC also confirmed midfielder Claudia Valletta has departed the club following the expiration of her contract.
