24/7/26
Impetus has news of major arrivals at both Adelaide United and Sydney FC, plus Perth Glory’s new CEO and, Western Sydney Wanderers’ list of departing players. Collated by Ben Gilby
Adelaide United have announced the arrival of Young Matildas star Claudia Cicco on a two-year deal.
Cicco, 21, joins the Reds with strong A-League Women experience, having previously represented Wellington Phoenix and Newcastle Jets, while also progressing through the national team pathway with the Young Matildas.
A versatile defender, Cicco has already earned valuable senior minutes at A-League Women level and arrives in Adelaide as one of the country’s promising young talents.
The player said Adelaide United’s focus on development and opportunity made the Club the right fit for the next stage of her career.
“I’ve heard nothing but great things about the Club, the culture, the facilities and the training environment, and I feel like this is the right place for me to keep developing and become the best player I can be.
“I knew coming in that Adelaide prioritises young player development, and as a young player myself, I felt this was the best decision for me at this stage of my career.
“I needed a new challenge, and I believe this environment can help me grow, push myself, and continue working towards my goal of playing for the Matildas.”
Cicco’s arrival is a big boost for the South Australian side who have seen many members of last season’s squad depart in recent weeks.
Her departure will be felt by previous club Newcastle Jets, who Cicco joined in 2023 and made a total of 58 appearances scoring one goal.
Speaking about her departure, Jets Coach Stephen Hoyle said: “Claudia is a fantastic player who has given everything to the Club during her time here.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with Claudia and will always keep the door open to her returning to Newcastle should the opportunity arrive. We wish Claudia all the best for her career.”
Perth Glory have announced Ben Lever as their new CEO.
Speaking about the qualities he brings to the role, Lever told the media: “I have a track record of turning businesses around and growing them and to have the opportunity to replicate that success in the football industry makes this the ideal job for me.
“The huge potential that Perth Glory has on and off the field is clear to see and I am relishing the opportunity to bring that to life,” he said.
“A lot of hard work has already been done and now it’s a case of continuing that progress while also bringing some fresh ideas to the table.
“Perth Glory has been a very successful club before and the aim is to bring that success back and crucially, to sustain it.”
The club previously revealed their plans to build a dedicated HQ and home venue for their A-League Women’s team along with their academy set up.
Sydney FC have signed experienced midfielder Amy Chessari on a two-year contract.
The 22-year-old arrives at the Sky Blues after making 65 A-League Women’s appearances for Western Sydney Wanderers, where she spent the opening four seasons of her professional career after making her debut as a teenager.
Chessari studies part time at the Sky Blues Principal Partner Macquarie University where she was awarded the Athlete of the Year in 2025 at the Macquarie University Sport Awards.
She now joins Head Coach James Slaveski’s squad as Sydney FC continue to build towards the 2026-27 A-League Women’s campaign.
Chessari said she was excited by the opportunity to begin the next chapter of her career in Sky Blue.
“I’m really excited to be joining Sydney FC and taking on a new challenge,
“I have some great memories from my four years at the Wanderers after making my debut there, and I’m grateful for everything the club did for me, but this felt like the right time to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Western Sydney Wanderers have announced the departure of 10 players earlier today.
Amy Chessari began departure list after joining cross city rivals Sydney FC (see above). Also leaving are Cushla Rue, Ella Buchanan, and Poppie Hooks were joined by Japanese midfielder Ena Harada, Philippines international Janae De Fazio, South Korean midfielder Kim Soeun, and Chinese international Yuan Cong.
Anika Stajcic and Siena Arrate complete the list of ten with the completion of their contracts.
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