The A-League Women is buzzing with activity as teams reshape their squads for the upcoming 2025/26 season. From Brisbane Roar to Sydney FC, clubs are bringing in new talent and saying goodbye to familiar faces. This preview looks at the key changes for six teams, highlighting the new players to watch and what to expect in the new season. We also catch up on the latest from Australia’s national teams and celebrate a historic win in Ireland.
The main trend this off-season is a mix of strategic international signings and a strong focus on developing young, local talent. Teams are looking for a competitive edge by bringing in experienced players from European leagues and the US, while also giving rising stars a chance to shine. This blend of experience and youth promises an exciting and unpredictable season ahead.
🔄 Teams Aiming for a Stronger Season
After narrowly missing the playoffs, both Brisbane Roar and Sydney FC are making significant changes to come back stronger. The Roar, who started last season well but faded late, are determined to return to form. Veteran Tameka Yallop is back, along with rising star Grace Kuilamu. To boost their attack, they’ve signed Dutch forward Bente Jansen from Ajax and American striker Ashlyn Miller. A key returning player is Sharn Freier, back on loan from German club VfL Wolfsburg, who will add valuable experience. Meanwhile, Sydney FC is also looking for a fresh start after a tough season where they missed the playoffs for the first time in league history. They’ve signed several new international players, including Panamanian international Riley Tanner and American forward Jodi Ulkekul. The team is also investing in youth with 17-year-old striker Skye Halmarick, who has been impressive for Australia’s youth teams. However, they will miss long-time star Princess Ibini, who has moved to a club in Turkey.
✨ Fresh Faces and New Leadership
Wellington Phoenix and Perth Glory are bringing in a wave of new talent to shake things up. The Phoenix are making big moves under new head coach Bev Priestman, signing experienced Netherlands international Tessel Middag and New Zealand star CJ Bott, who returns home after four seasons in England. American defender Ellie Walker also joins from Portugal. The team is building a new international lineup, as all five of their overseas players from last season have departed. Key local players like Mackenzie Barry and Manaia Elliott are staying to provide stability. Perth Glory is hoping to end their five-season playoff drought with some major signings. American forward Rola Badawiya, who has previously won A-League titles, returns after a season in Portugal. They have also added Philippines international Emma Tovar from Spain and defender Julia Sardo, who returns to the club after five years.
🛠️ Rebuilding Squads for a Better Future
For teams that finished lower in the standings, this off-season is all about rebuilding. Newcastle Jets are focused on strengthening their defence after conceding the most goals in the league last season. They have brought in New Zealand international goalkeeper Anna Leat from Aston Villa and young keeper Georgia Ritchie. They have also added several other New Zealand players, including defender Charlotte Lancaster and midfielder Olivia Page. After finishing last, Western Sydney Wanderers are also undergoing a major rebuild. They have signed two players from China, Wang Ying and Yuan Cong, to bolster their squad. They’ve also brought in New Zealand international goalkeeper Brianna Edwards from rivals Sydney FC. A bright spot is the contract extension for 16-year-old rising star Talia Younis, who is seen as a key player for the club’s future.
🌏 Global Stage: National Pride and Irish Success
On the international front, Australia’s U-17 team, featuring many A-League talents, has qualified for the 2026 AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup. The senior national team had mixed results during their UK tour, securing a 2-1 win against Wales but losing 3-0 to England. Elsewhere, Irish club Athlone Town celebrated a fantastic season by winning both the league and cup, securing their return to the Women’s Champions League. American forward Kelly Brady was the star, winning the Golden Boot with an impressive 19 league goals.
