Sydney FC have announced club legend Princess Ibini will not return to the Sky Blues for an 11th consecutive Ninja A-League season, with the 25-year-old set to pursue an opportunity overseas.
Ibini debuted for the Sky Blues as a 15-year-old in 2015 and went on to accrue 163 appearances across all competitions, including 160 in the Ninja A-League – an all-time club record.
Remarkably, in her 10 seasons at Sydney FC, Ibini featured in eight Ninja A-League Grand Finals – the most of any player in either the Ninja A-League Women or Isuzu UTE A-League Men through the A-Leagues’ 20-year history.
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At just 25 years of age, Ibini sits fifth on the Ninja A-League’s all-time list of appearance makers, having claimed another slice of competition history in 2023 as the youngest player to reach the 100-game mark at just 22 years, 11 months and 10 days.
A bona fide legend of the Ninja A-League, the three-time Championship and three-time Premiership winner, with 31 league goals to her name, departs the Sky Blues as one of the defining figures of the competition’s 17-season history.
“I’m so thankful to Sydney FC for believing in me as a 15-year-old and giving me the chance to live out my dream,” Ibini said.
“It’s been an incredible journey — to play so many games, win so many trophies, and to make friendships that will last a lifetime.
“Wearing the Sky Blue shirt has been one of the greatest honours of my life, and I leave full of pride in everything we’ve achieved together. This club will always have a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”
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Ibini received a fitting farewell from Sky Blues head coach Ante Juric as her departure from the club was confirmed.
“Princess has been the heart and soul of Sydney FC for the last ten seasons,” Juric said.
“She joined us as a young teenager and grew into one of the most consistent and reliable players this league has seen.
“She’s a fierce competitor, a wonderful teammate and has contributed massively to our success with her goals, assists, and leadership.
“We’ll miss her dearly, but we’re incredibly proud to see her take this next step.”
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Princess Ibini – Sydney FC statistics and accolades
Ninja A-League appearances: 160
Goals: 31
Asian Women’s Champions League appearances: 3
Grand Finals: 8 (A-Leagues Record – men or women)
Trophies: Ninja A-League Championship (2018–19, 2022-23, 2023-24), Ninja A-League Premiership (2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23
Other Honours: Sydney FC Rising Star (2018-19), Ninja A-League All Star (2024)
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