Melbourne City FC has strengthened its midfield ahead of the 2026/27 season, securing Brazilian midfielder, Matheus Rossetto, on loan from Fortaleza.
Rossetto arrives in Melbourne after a decade-long professional career that has included more than 200 senior appearances across Brazil and Major League Soccer (MLS), winning both domestic and continental silverware in South America.
A graduate of Athletico Paranaense’s acclaimed Academy, the 30-year-old made more than 100 senior appearances during one of the club’s most successful periods, helping lift the Copa Sudamericana and Copa do Brasil before continuing his career with Atlanta United in the MLS.
Rossetto spent four seasons with Atlanta, making almost 100 appearances across all competitions before returning to Brazil with Fortaleza, where he continued to add to his extensive experience in Brazil’s Série A.
Capable of playing across a range of midfield roles, Rossetto has built a reputation as a composed and dependable presence in the centre of the pitch, renowned for his ability to dictate the tempo of matches while providing defensive stability.
His arrival adds valuable experience to Aurelio Vidmar’s squad as City continues preparations for its Australia Cup Round of 16 fixture in the coming fortnight.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo said Rossetto’s experience and football intelligence made him an ideal addition to City’s midfield.
“We’re delighted to welcome Matheus to Melbourne City,” Petrillo said.
“He’s competed successfully at a high level in both Brazil and the MLS, and we believe his qualities are an excellent fit for the way we want to play.
“Matheus is an intelligent midfielder who reads the game exceptionally well. He controls the tempo, works tirelessly for the team and brings composure and balance whenever he’s on the pitch.
“Just as importantly, his professionalism and experience will be a great asset for our younger players, and we’re looking forward to the influence he’ll have across the group this season.”
Rossetto said Melbourne City presented an exciting opportunity at this stage of his career.
“I’m very happy to be joining Melbourne City and excited for this new challenge in Australia,” Rossetto said.
“I’ve heard a lot of positive things about the Club, the style of football the team wants to play and the ambition that exists here. It made this an opportunity I really wanted to be part of.
“I want to bring everything I’ve learned throughout my career, help the team however I can and do everything possible to contribute to a successful season.
“I’m looking forward to meeting my teammates, the coaches and our supporters, and I can’t wait to get started.”
