A-League season begins with major squad updates and Sydney Derby

The 2026-27 A-League season commences this weekend, marked by significant squad updates and the highly anticipated Sydney Derby between Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers FC. Sydney FC prepares to field new arrivals including Takahiro Sekine and Oriola Sunday, while the Wanderers look to improve upon their previous last-place finish under coach Ufuk Talay.

In the Ninja A-League, Melbourne City FC has finalized its women’s squad with the signing of experienced forward Princess Ibini. Returning from a stint with Beşiktaş in Turkey, the 26-year-old Matildas international adds depth to the reigning double-winning side. Additionally, Melbourne Victory has signed goalkeeper Shaylee Lane and striker Jasmine Millar to Youth Development Agreements to bolster their women’s program.

Other notable A-League Men updates include Auckland FC entering a new era under Portuguese coach Pedro Moreira following their championship win, and Adelaide United preparing for their AFC Champions League Two campaign despite the loss of top scorer Luka Jovanovic to the MLS.