Matildas duo depart City to pursue overseas opportunities

Melbourne City FC can confirm that Bryleeh Henry and Alexia Apostolakis will depart the Club following the conclusion of their contracts as they pursue opportunities overseas. 

Having joined City ahead of the 2022/23 season, Henry departs after playing a key role in one of the most successful periods in the history of Melbourne City’s Women’s program. 

Across four seasons in City blue, the versatile attacker made 84 appearances in all competitions, scoring 12 goals and registering 13 assists. 

Henry quickly became a consistent contributor following her arrival at the Club, helping City secure three consecutive Premierships and the 2025/26 Championship while also making significant contributions during the Club’s AFC Women’s Champions League campaigns. 

During her time at City, she continued to earn Matildas selection, adding to her tally of international appearances. 

Apostolakis joined City in July 2024 and immediately established herself as a key figure in the lineup, starting all but one match in her debut season at the Club. 

The versatile defender went on to make 56 appearances across two seasons in Melbourne, helping the Club lift three pieces of silverware while consistently impressing both domestically and on the continental stage. 

Her performances were rewarded at international level, earning several Matildas call-ups and her senior debut for Australia against Panama in 2025. 

Henry and Apostolakis now embark on the next stage of their careers, with both players having played key roles in a period that delivered multiple trophies and further recognition at international level. 

Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo thanked both players for their contribution to the Club. 

“Bryleeh and Alexia have each made a significant impact during their time at Melbourne City and have played important roles in the success our Women’s program has enjoyed in recent seasons,” Petrillo said. 

“Bryleeh arrived at the Club as a young player and developed into a consistently reliable performer across multiple trophy-winning campaigns. Alexia made an immediate impression from the moment she arrived and quickly established herself as one of the competition’s leading young defenders. 

“Both players have embraced the standards we expect at Melbourne City, represented the Club exceptionally well and earned the opportunity to take the next step in their careers. 

“We thank them for everything they have contributed and wish them every success for the future.” 

Bryleeh Henry reflected fondly on her time at Melbourne City. 

“After four incredible years at City, the time has come for me to begin a new chapter,” Henry said. 

“I’m immensely grateful for the opportunities, experiences and success I’ve been fortunate enough to share with this Club, my incredible teammates, coaches, staff, and supporters. 

“The memories, friendships and success we shared will stay with me for the rest of my career. While leaving is never easy, I do so with immense pride and gratitude for this amazing club and am excited for what lies ahead. 

“Thank you for absolutely everything. This Club will always hold a special place in my heart.” 

Alexia Apostolakis said her two seasons at City had been instrumental in her development. 

“My time at Melbourne City has been incredibly special and has helped shape me both as a player and a person,” Apostolakis said. 

“The experiences I’ve had over the last two years, the success we shared as a team and the opportunity to represent the Matildas are memories I’ll always carry with me. 

“I’m grateful to my teammates, coaches, staff and our fans for their support, and I’m excited for the challenge ahead as I take the next step in my career.”