Aziz Behich signs for Melbourne City

Melbourne City FC is delighted to announce the signing of Socceroos defender, Aziz Behich, on a two-year deal.

Behich makes his return to the Club after having previously made 89 appearances for Melbourne Heart between 2010-2013, which launched his European career.

The 32-year-old has represented Australia on 57 occasions and has played every minute of the Socceroos previous two World Cup campaigns.

A dynamic full-back, Behich re-joins the Club from Scotland’s Dundee United, where he spent last season after almost a decade playing in the Turkish Super Lig.

He made 195 appearances in Türkiye, with the majority coming at Bursapor, in addition to a championship winning spell with Basaksehir FK in 2019/20.

Behich is Rado Vidosic’s tenth new signing ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, which will officially kick-off next week when City faces Oakleigh Cannons in the Australia Cup Round of 32.

Melbourne City FC Director of Football, Michael Petrillo, said:

“We are delighted to be able to bring home a current Socceroo and a player who already has such strong links to the club and the fans. Aziz is really excited about re-joining Melbourne City, and he has so much to offer, not only for the club, but also the whole league.

Aziz perfectly suits the City style of football and character that we require. He has a great attitude, works hard and is very good in both attacking and defensive phases. He will bring further leadership qualities to our group and will be a positive mentor for our younger players.

“Aziz had an outstanding tournament at last year’s World Cup. We look forward to him bringing his skill, passion, and competitiveness to the pitch over the next two seasons.”

Aziz Behich said:

It’s exciting to be back in my hometown, with my friends and family and preparing for a new season with a club that is so close to my heart.

“I’ve stayed in close contact with Michael and Brad over the years and they have always made me feel like I’m still part of the club. The league has grown a lot since I last played at Melbourne Heart, with new teams and a high level of young Australian and international talent on the pitch.

“It’s going to be great to link up again with Leckie, Maclaren and all the City boys. I can’t wait for the season to start and to see the familiar faces in the crowd.”