Melbourne City have announced the return of teenage defender Besian Kutleshi to the club ahead of the Isuzu UTE A-League 2025-26 season.
The 16-year-old spent two years in City’s academy between 2022 and 2024 before a one-season stint at Western United; now, the Australia Under-17 international is back in City blue having signed a long-term contract with the reigning Isuzu UTE A-League Champions.
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Kutleshi rejoins a defensive unit at City that boasts fellow young prospects Liam Bonetig and Jayden Necovski as the club looks to lock down highly-rated defensive options for years to come.
City director of football Michael Petrillo said: “We’re really pleased to have Besian returning to the club.
“He’s a talented young defender who has already achieved a lot at his age, and with the right work ethic and mindset, he has all the tools to develop into a very good player for us in the years ahead.”
Kutleshi, who became the youngest player to represent City’s VPL1 side in 2024 at just 14 years of age, expressed his pride at returning to the club after a one-year hiatus.
“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to return to Melbourne City,” he said.
“This club has been such a big part of my development, and I know it’s the best place for me to keep improving as a player.
“I’ll be working hard every day in training to learn from the coaches and experienced players around me, and I’m excited to keep growing my game and push for opportunities this
season.”
READ MORE
FULL FIXTURES: Every match of the Isuzu UTE A-League 25-26 season here
DERBY DATES: The matches to circle in your calendar now
FIRST 5 FIXTURES: Your Isuzu UTE A-League team’s start to the 2025-26 season
FINALS SERIES: 2025-26 structure and dates
TRANSFER CENTRE: Your club’s ins/outs ahead of the upcoming season
