Key player with ‘immense potential’ pens new Wellington Phoenix deal: ‘An easy decision’

Emma Main will remain a Wellington Phoenix player until the end of the Ninja A-League 2026-27 season after signing a new two-year contract.

Main has established herself as a key player for the Nix over the course of the past two seasons and featured 22 times for the side last season.

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“It definitely was an easy decision for me to re-sign,” Main said after putting pen-to-paper on her new deal.

“Obviously, Wellington’s my home and playing in front of my friends and family is something I never take for granted.

“I also really cherish the club’s belief in me over the past two seasons and having the confidence to sign me for another two seasons.

She added: “It’s a great opportunity for me. Over the previous two seasons I’ve grown a lot in terms of understanding how to handle the pressure and finding consistency, whether that’s coming off the bench or being in the starting team.

“I think that’s really set me up well and I’m hoping the next two years is when I really thrive, score a lot of goals and become a really integral part of this team.”

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The 25-year-old found the back of the net three times last season and now sits joint-second when it comes to overall goals scored for the club since they joined the Ninja A-League four years ago.

Emma Main in action against Melbourne City

“Last season I definitely didn’t score as many goals as I would have liked to and I really want to build on that and become one of those key goal scorers for the Nix,” Main said.

“But I also want to create more chances, whether that’s shooting more or providing the final pass for a goalscoring opportunity.

“I’d like to be better there and be a bit more consistent to help the team win big games.”

After missing out on finals football last year the Nix are in the process of a squad rebuild with head coach Paul Temple and captain Annalie Longo among those to leave the club.

Emma Main in action against Canberra United

In what’s been an eye-catching transfer window so far the Nix have prised dangerous winger Lucia Leon away from Adelaide United, Dutch international Tessel Middag from Scottish giants Rangers, American defender Ellie Walker and Football Ferns goalkeeper Victoria Esson for the 2025-26 season.

“It’s a really exciting time for the women’s squad. There are a few signings yet to be announced too, which I know the fans will be excited about, but also the signings that have been announced are really exciting.

“They’ll bring fresh energy to the team and they’re all mature players which will be really beneficial.

“We’ve also got the young ones who are coming up so there’ll be a good balance there and we’re definitely hoping to fight for silverware with this mix of players.”

Currently the club’s interim head coach until a permanent successor to Temple is found, Amy Shepherd says the re-signing of Main is a big deal for the club.

“Emma is a local player with immense potential,” Shepherd said.

“Her ability to inject energy into the team and pose a constant threat to opponents makes her an exciting prospect for the future.

“We caught glimpses of her talent last season and we’re confident she’ll continue to be a key player, bringing dynamism and creativity to our squad.”