Melbourne City have added some international experience to their defensive unit after signing Costa Rican defender Julio Cascante on a one-year deal with an option for a further season.
The 32-year-old centre-back arrives in Melbourne after building an extensive career across Costa Rica and the United States, including making more than 150 appearances in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Cascante brings with him a wealth of international experience having represented the Costa Rican national team 14 times including playing for his country in FIFA World Cup qualifying as well as the 2024 Copa America.
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The central defender joins the club having most recently played for MLS side Austin FC, where he scored nine goals and provided five assists during his five seasons in Texas.
Cascante said he was excited to begin the next chapter of his career in Melbourne.
“I’ve always been interested in playing in Australia, and when the opportunity came to join Melbourne City, it felt like the perfect fit,” Cascante said.
“I’ve heard many great things about the Club, the way the team plays and the ambition here.
“I’m excited to get to work with my teammates and do everything I can to contribute to a successful season for the Club and our fans.”
A ball-playing defender, Cascante adds experience and maturity to Aurelio Vidmar’s squad, with his ability to help build attacks from the back another option for City in the heart of defence.
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Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo said Cascante would bring important experience and composure to City’s defensive group.
“We’re delighted to welcome Julio to Melbourne City,” Petrillo said.
“He arrives with extensive experience at both club and international level, and we believe his qualities are a strong fit for the way we want to play.
“Julio is comfortable in possession, reads the game well and brings a calm presence to the heart of defence.
“He will add maturity to our defensive group and provide another important option as we prepare for a big season ahead.”
He becomes City’s sixth new signing ahead of the 2026/27 season and will help fill the void left by the departures of central defensive duo German Ferreyra and Samuel Souprayen.
Cascante has already joined the squad in training ahead of the club’s Isuzu UTE A-League season opener away to Auckland FC on Saturday 17 October.
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