Poletti 
Hannah Wilkinson in action for Melbourne City. Photo: Supplied by Melbourne City.
Melbourne City have announced the departure of forward Hannah Wilkinson following the conclusion of her contract, whilst Taylor Otto has resigned.
Wilkinson, the New Zealand international, who leaves having scored 30 goals in her 51 appearances for the club, says she loved her time in Melbourne.
“I’d like to thank the fans, my amazing teammates, the coaching staff and everyone at the club for supporting me during my time at City,” she said.
“To win the Premiers Plate this past season, with this group of girls, was simply incredible and is something that I will never forget.
“I’ve loved my time at City and wish everyone all the best for next season.”
Coach Dario Vidosic is full of praise for Wilkinson and commends the impact of her performances for the club.
“It’s important to recognise the influence that Hannah has had on our squad,” he said.
“She joined City as an internationally capped player with a wealth of experience and has been a positive role model and mentor for our younger players.
“Hannah’s performances have earned her great individual accolades, but more importantly have played a big part in what we’ve been able to build towards as a squad, culminating in us winning the Premiers Plate.”
While the loss of Wilkinson is a big one for last season’s premiers, they have some internal options to replace her.
Bryleeh Henry can play as a striker and could be ready to make the step up, as could Caitlin Karic.
City also have the expected return of Holly McNamara from an ACL injury who they spent most of last season without, and should come right back in to the forward line as an option.
On the defensive end, the club has also announced that Taylor Otto has re-signed on a one-year deal.
The American defender started every match during the 2023/24 season and Vidosic sees her as a key part of the squad as the side adds Champions League football to its schedule next season.
“Taylor fit in seamlessly during her first season at City and we’re delighted to have her returning to the club,” he said.
“Her partnership with Stotty (Rebekah Stott) was crucial to our success last season and it’s vital that we keep that same stability going into such an important campaign both here at home, and in Asia.”
Otto says that she is excited to return to Melbourne and kick off on the 2024/25 season.
“I immediately felt right at home as soon as I arrived last season, which shows just how great the culture is at Melbourne City,” she said.
“I had so much fun being part of this amazing group of girls and I’m so proud that we were able to win the Premiers Plate for our fans.
“I’m really excited to get back into training and looking forward to testing ourselves against the very best in Asia. The season can’t come soon enough.”