Melbourne City FC can confirm it has accepted an offer for defender Nathaniel Atkinson, to join Scottish Premiership club, Heart of Midlothian. Atkinson will depart City in the upcoming January transfer window.
The Tasmanian made the move to Melbourne to join City’s Academy at the age of 15 and rapidly progressed through the ranks, impressing coaches with his work ethic and desire to improve.
His hard work paid off when he made his senior debut for the Club in an FFA Cup match in August 2017, before making his A-League Men’s debut a few months later.
Atkinson went on to make 80 senior appearances for City and scored four goals, none more important than his first half strike in the 2021 Grand Final.
In a blistering performance on the big stage, Atkinson was awarded the Joe Marston Medal as the player judged best afield.
As well as his Club exploits, the City Academy product also represented Australia at under-20 and under-23 level, most notably being widely regarded as one of the Olyroos’ best performers at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
While everyone at City is sad to see Nathaniel go, we would like to thank him for his contributions to the Club and wish him all the best in Scotland.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo said:
“Nathaniel is a fitting example of a player who has come through our Academy system, has proven himself at a professional level in Australia and now can test himself in Europe.
“It has been incredibly rewarding watching him develop both as a player on the pitch and as a young man off the pitch.
“Everyone at the club wishes Nathaniel good luck and he is always welcome at Melbourne City.”
Nathaniel Atkinson said:
“Since joining City as a 15-year-old, it has been an incredible journey. I have had some amazing memories from my time here and being part of the first Men’s team to win a Premiership and Championship for the Club is something I will never forget.
“City fans have been amazing. I will never forget their support at last season’s Grand Final and I would like to thank them for everything they have done for me.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to play in Europe, and while I’m sad to be leaving City, the time has come to test myself overseas and I hope that I can make everyone proud back home.”
