Melbourne Victory is pleased to announce the signing of former Socceroo, Matthew Spiranovic, for the 2021/22 A-League season.
The centre-back played under Tony Popovic at Western Sydney Wanderers from 2013 to 2015 and at Perth Glory in 2018/19.
The Geelong-born defender debuted for the Socceroos in 2008 and was a part of the winning 2015 Asian Cup team. Between 2008 and 2019 he earned 39 national caps and also represented his country at Under-17, Under-20 and Under-23 level, playing in the 2008 Olympics.
Spiranovic played in Melbourne Victory’s first ever competitive match, the 2004/05 Oceanian Football Confederation Club Championship qualifier, as a 16-year-old against Adelaide United on May 7, 2005. This was prior to the Club’s inaugural 2005/06 A-League season.
Victory A-League Head Coach, Tony Popovic, said Spiranovic will bring experience, depth and leadership to the Melbourne Victory squad.
“Matt is a talented player with indisputable ability,” Popovic said.
“After a period away from the game he has a renewed desire and passion to play.
“He will bring experience and leadership qualities to the squad and we look forward to seeing his renewed football passion, on the pitch, in Melbourne Victory colours where it all began.”
Spiranovic is excited to be making his return to football at Melbourne Victory and under the direction of Tony Popovic.
“I am looking forward to playing the game I love again at Melbourne Victory,” Spiranovic said.
“The Club played a significant role in my development when I was starting out as a teenager and under the direction of Tony Popovic this will be a new chapter for the Club.
“The combination of returning to the Club where it began and playing under the Boss was too great an opportunity to miss. I am looking forward to contributing to the growth, success and leadership of the team.”
The 33-year-old is returning to play competitive football for a professional club for the first time since leaving Perth Glory at the end of the 2018/2019 season. His last competitive match was for the Socceroos against South Korea in 2019.
