Melbourne City have announced the return of Socceroos full-back Aziz Behich to the reigning three-time Isuzu UTE A-League premiers on a two-year contract.
Behich, who between 2010-2014 made 89 appearances at the club formerly known as Melbourne Heart, returns to Victoria to link up with Socceroos teammates Mathew Leckie and Jamie Maclaren, who he played alongside in Australia’s 2022 FIFA Men’s World Cup campaign.
The 32-year-old has played 57 times for the Socceroos, and returns to Australia from Scottish club Dundee United after they were relegated from the top flight last season.
He spent nearly a decade abroad in the Turkish Super Lig, predominantly at Bursaspor as well as Kayserispor, Giresunspor and Basaksehir FK
“This is the club that helped kick-start my career abroad, and I’m really excited to be back here,” Behich said as he put pen to paper on a two-year deal.
“This club gave me everything. They threw me a lifeline back then… if I was coming home, it was always going to be Melbourne City.
“The way the club is run at the moment and the success they’ve had – I want to be a part of that.”
Melbourne City’s Director of Football, Michael Petrillo expressed his delight at securing the services of the Socceroos left-back on a multi-year deal.
“We are delighted to be able to bring home a current Socceroo and a player who already has such strong links to the club and the fans. Aziz is really excited about re-joining Melbourne City, and he has so much to offer, not only for the club, but also the whole league.
“Aziz perfectly suits the City style of football and character that we require. He has a great attitude, works hard and is very good in both attacking and defensive phases. He will bring further leadership qualities to our group and will be a positive mentor for our younger
players.
“Aziz had an outstanding tournament at last year’s World Cup. We look forward to him bringing his skill, passion and competitiveness to the pitch over the next two seasons.”
