Three years after leaving home to pursue his football dream at just 15 years of age, Melbourne City Academy graduate Roland Ballah has signed his first professional contract with the Club, putting pen to paper on a two-year deal with an option for a further season.
Ballah’s City journey began in 2023 when the West Australian relocated to Melbourne to join the Club’s Academy, making the brave decision to leave home and his family in pursuit of a professional football career.
The sacrifices he has made have been matched by his dedication on the pitch, establishing himself as one of the Academy’s standout performers across the past three seasons.
Following City’s promotion to the National Premier League (NPL), Ballah has thrived against senior opposition, establishing himself as one of the competition’s most exciting young attacking talents. In his debut NPL season, the 18-year-old has scored 11 goals in 17 appearances to sit second in the league’s Golden Boot standings.
Blessed with explosive pace, fearless one-on-one ability and a natural eye for goal, Ballah has earned the opportunity to join Aurelio Vidmar’s first-team squad as City begins preparations for the new season.
Melbourne City FC Senior Academy Manager Simon Zappia praised Ballah’s journey and commitment.
“Not many 15-year-olds are willing to leave home and move across the country to chase their dream, but Roland did exactly that,” Zappia said.
“Since the day he arrived, he has embraced every challenge with maturity, humility and an incredible work ethic. This opportunity is a reflection of the hard work and determination he has shown every day since joining the Club.
“Roland is a fantastic role model for everyone in our Academy. His journey shows what’s possible when talent is matched by commitment, and we’re all delighted to see him earn his first professional contract.”
Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo said Ballah had all the attributes to continue making an impact at senior level.
“Roland’s progression since joining our Academy has been outstanding,” Petrillo said.
“The way he has adapted to senior football in the NPL this season has reinforced everything we’ve seen throughout his journey in our Academy. He’s earned this opportunity through his performances, his attitude and the consistency he’s shown every day.
“We believe Roland has all the attributes to develop into a player capable of making a real impact at A-League level, and we’re excited to see him continue to grow within our first-team environment.”
Ballah said signing his first professional contract was a proud moment for both himself and his family.
“Signing my first professional contract is a really proud moment for me and my family,” Ballah said.
“Moving from Perth to Melbourne at 15 wasn’t an easy decision, but we believed it was the right one. I’m really grateful to my parents for the sacrifices they’ve made and to everyone at Melbourne City for supporting me since I arrived.
“I’ve learned so much over the past three years, not just as a footballer but as a person. The coaches, staff and teammates have all played a big part in helping me get to this point.
“This is a really proud moment, but I know I’ve still got a lot of work to do. My goal now is to keep improving every day and earn the opportunity to represent Melbourne City in the A-League.”
