Melbourne City have secured the services of Matildas defender Karly Roestbakken for the 2026/27 Ninja A-League season after the versatile defender signed a new one-year deal.
The new contract will see Roestbakken enter a fifth season at City, where she has become a key figure during one of the club’s most successful eras.
Since arriving at City in October 2022, Roestbakken has made 73 appearances across domestic and continental competitions, helping the club win three consecutive Premierships, claim the 2025/26 Ninja A-League Championship and reach the AFC Women’s Champions League Final.
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Her performances also earned a return to the Matildas, while she was recognised with Melbourne City’s Melissa Barbieri Award in the 2023/24 season.
Roestbakken’s re-signing provides further continuity for head coach Michael Matricciani as City prepare to defend both their Premiership and Championship crowns in 2026/27.
Melbourne City Director of Football Michael Petrillo said retaining Roestbakken was a major priority heading into the new campaign.
“Karly has become an incredibly important member of our squad over the past four seasons, and we’re delighted to have her continuing with the Club,” Petrillo said.
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“Her resilience, professionalism and commitment have been outstanding, and she’s played a significant role in the success we’ve had during her time at Melbourne City.
“With a number of changes to our squad this off-season, retaining players of Karly’s experience, leadership and character is incredibly important as we begin another campaign.”
Roestbakken said she was looking forward to building on the success City have enjoyed over the past four years.
“These last four years have given me some of the most memorable moments of my career, and I’m really excited to be back for another season,” Roestbakken said.
“The success we’ve shared has come from the standards everyone sets every day, and I’m proud to have played a part in that over the past four years.
“I’m looking forward to getting back out there with the girls, continuing to work hard and doing everything I can to help us compete for more trophies this season.”
