Melbourne City Academy graduate signs senior contract

Melbourne City FC is excited to announce the signing of full-back Harry Politidis on a one-year deal ahead of the 2023/24 season.

Politidis has been with the Club since he first joined City’s Academy as a 15-year-old in 2017 and has captained the senior NPL team for the past two seasons.

After being named as a substitute on multiple occasions so far this season in the Australia Cup and AFC Champions League, Politidis made his senior debut on Sunday against Sydney FC when he entered the pitch in the 78^th minute.

In recent years the full-back has had to work hard to overcome injury and his patience and drive to improve have now seen him rewarded with a senior contract.

A physically strong left-sided player, Politidis is capable of playing both as a full-back and further up the pitch on the wing, which adds further depth to Rado Vidosic’s squad.

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

“It’s really pleasing to see Harry receive his first professional contract. He is another product of our Academy who has over the last few seasons had a few setbacks with injury, however, he has shown remarkable resilience, determination and positivity to work even harder after each setback.

His story is a great example to our younger players that with the right attitude and perseverance, you can achieve your goals at this Club.”

Harry Politidis said:

“It’s an incredible feeling and it’s been a day that I’ve been dreaming about for a long time. The Club and staff have been great in supporting me throughout a number of injuries and setbacks, and I thank them for trusting me and now offering me an opportunity to continue fulfilling my dream.

“Between playing our first AFC Champions League campaign on home soil and competing for more silverware in the A-League, it’s an exciting time for myself and City fans.

“I’m hoping to earn as many minutes as I can and repay the faith the club has given me. I want to prove myself as a player that can play for this team consistently and contribute to providing this great Club continued success.”