Melbourne City FC can today confirm the return of Melissa Barbieri in a playing assistant coach role.
This will be the former Matildas goalkeeper’s fourth season at City where she has played a vital role in the Club’s recent success.
Barbieri went to four World Cups with the Matildas and also captained her country the in the successful 2010 Asian Cup campaign.
Although she has played just one match in her time at City since coming out of retirement and signing as an injury replacement in 2017, with her mountain of experience, she is a highly valued member of Rado Vidosic’s squad and coaching staff.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo said:
“We are so grateful to have Melissa back again for a further season.
“Her work not only as a backup keeper to Lydia over the years but the work she does in the background in coaching, mentoring and supporting all players in the squad has been a massive contribution to the success and the culture that has been created within this team.
“The way she prepares herself every year is such a great example to all of our players and she is very much the heart and soul of this team.”
Melissa Barbieri said:
“Returning to City is always an easy decision, this Club is family and the CFA is our home.
“This season I want to set high standards at every training session, we want to build on what was started last season with our defensive records so clean sheets are a big way of gauging that.
“It’s business as usual at City, our family may see some new faces but our winning mentality will still be there.
“Having a relentless desire to play quality football is the City way.”
