Experienced Chilean international Maria Jose Rojas has joined City after signing as an injury replacement through to the end of December.
This comes as a result of Hannah Wilkinson, City’s top-scorer last season, being ruled out for that period with a quad injury.
Rojas joins City from Cypriot club Apollon Ladies where she had scored six goals and assisted a further four in just six matches.
She has made 41 total appearances in the A-League Women’s competition and scored seven goals in previous stints with Sydney FC, Adelaide United and Canberra United.
Rojas’ impressive CV boasts over 50 international appearances and 12 goals for Chile, as well as plenty of experience on the big stage having appeared at multiple Women’s World Cups and Copa America tournaments.
She’s set to bring a wealth of experience to City’s squad, and in particular a front third that will be missing both Wilkinson and Holly McNamara for the start of the season.
Head Coach Rado Vidosic said Rojas’ signing was a big coup for City on the eve of the season.
“While it’s disappointing to be missing Hannah for the start of the season, we’re excited to bring Maria into the club,” Vidosic said.
“Maria will add experience and leadership to our attack, and she showed last season she’s as dangerous as ever in front of goal.”
The club can also confirm that Isabella Accardo has signed a new scholarship contract and will again be part of the squad after making one appearance last season.
2022/23 City ALW Squad: Isabella ACCARDO, Melissa BARBIERI, Chelsea BLISSETT, Katie BOWEN, Emma CHECKER, Naomi CHINNAMA, Leah DAVIDSON, Emina EKIC, Daniela GALIC, Julia GROSSO, Bryleeh HENRY, Sally JAMES, Caitlin KARIC, Darcey MALONE, Leticia McKENNA, Holly McNAMARA*, Rhianna POLLICINA, Karly ROESTBAKKEN, Maria ROJAS**, Kaitlyn TORPEY, Tori TUMETH*, Hannah WILKINSON.
* Currently sidelined due to ACL injuries.
** Injury replacement.
