Awer Mabil, the 2023 Young Australian of the Year and a prominent Socceroo, is set to return to the A-Leagues after signing with Melbourne City. The announcement came on August 6, 2026, following Mabil's participation in the FIFA World Cup with the Socceroos.

Returning Home After a Successful Career Abroad

After spending 11 years playing in various European leagues, including stints in Denmark, Turkey, Portugal, Spain, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland, Mabil has made the decision to come back to Australia. Over his career, he has played more than 300 matches, featuring in prestigious competitions such as the UEFA Champions League and Europa League.

The 30-year-old forward has signed a three-year contract with Melbourne City, where he will join fellow Socceroos Aziz Behich and Mathew Leckie, as well as a group of promising young talents. However, the team will be adjusting to the loss of goalkeeper Patrick Beach, who has transferred to French Ligue 1 club Troyes.

A Heartfelt Connection to Australian Football

Mabil has been a significant figure for young Australian players of African descent, inspiring talents like Nestory Irankunda, Tete Yengi, Mohamed Toure, Musa Toure, and Al Hassan Toure. His recent World Cup experience included coming on during extra time and the penalty shootout against Egypt, where he successfully converted his penalty.

One memorable moment during the tournament was when Mabil expressed his admiration for SBS commentator David Basheer, stating, “I grew up watching you... You did the World Game [TV show] and that’s where I saw all my highlights from all over world football. So, thank you, you gave me good memories as a kid.”

Excitement for the Future with Melbourne City

Mabil is expected to arrive in Melbourne within the week to join City’s preseason preparations ahead of their season opener in Auckland on October 17 and the highly anticipated Melbourne Derby against Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park on October 24. He expressed his enthusiasm for returning to Australia, saying, “After spending more than a decade playing in Europe, I’m really excited to be coming home to Australia and beginning this new journey with Melbourne City.”

He further noted his admiration for the club's ambition and success, stating, “Following Australian football from afar in recent years, it’s impossible not to be impressed by what Melbourne City has built.” Mabil looks forward to working with the coaching staff and contributing to the team's future endeavors.