We are delighted to announce that 19-year-old goalkeeper, James Nieuwenhuizen, has signed a long-term contract extension that will keep him at the Club until at least 2027.
Already contracted through to the end of this season, the up-and-coming shot-stopper has signed a new three-year deal which will run until the end of season 2026/27.
Nieuwenhuizen is yet to make his senior debut but has impressed the coaching staff with his development since first joining the City Academy in 2019.
Named on the bench for each of City’s six competitive fixtures so far this campaign, he continues to press his case for senior opportunities while also working and learning in training every week with his experienced counterpart in Jamie Young.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football, Michael Petrillo, said:
“James is a player that gives everything whether that’s in a training session or games and because of this attitude, has shown remarkable development over the past couple of seasons.
“Young in years but with a very mature attitude to his game, he has a great career ahead of him if he continues to work hard, listen to his coaches and keep the professional attitude that he has to the game.
“He’s a terrific young man and a great example to all players coming through our Academy. We look forward to seeing him develop even further this season and into the future.”
James Nieuwenhuizen said:
“I didn’t really think too much about it, re-signing was always going to be a yes for me.
“My experiences with the Club so far have been nothing but positive. Not only do we have great players and staff members here, but they are all great people too. For me, one of the most important things is I know I’m going to be coming into training every day learning how to be a better player but also a better person.
“I couldn’t see myself moving anywhere else because I think I’m already at the best place in the country to develop as a player and City feels like home to me.”
