Former New Zealand age-group international Keegan Jelacic has signed for A-League club Melbourne Victory after ending his contract with Belgian club KAA Gent.
Midfielder Jelacic (22), whose mother is a New Zealander, played five games for the national U-17 team before switching his allegiance to Australia and winning selection for their U-23 side in 2023.
Melbourne Victory will be Jelacic’s third A-League club, having made his competition debut with Brisbane Roar in 2021, and spending time at Perth Glory the following season.
He joined Belgian club KAAA Gent in 2023, who loaned him to Norwegian club Stabæk and to Brisbane Roar, for whom he made 35 loan appearances.
Melbourne Victory head coach Arthur Diles said Jelacic was another example of outstanding young Australian talent with valuable experience both locally and internationally.
“Keegan’s arrival at the club ahead of our 2025-26 campaign will bolster our midfield as we aim to go one better than we did last season,” Diles said.
“We have a strong foundation to build on, and we’re looking forward to seeing Keegan bring his best to the team and contribute to our success.”
Jelacic said he was eager to seize his opportunity at Victory.
“Joining one of the biggest clubs in the league is always an exciting prospect,” Jelacic said.
“I’m looking forward to experiencing the passion of the club and doing my part on the pitch. I’m eager to bring success to Melbourne Victory and its members and fans.”
Main photo: Keegan Jelacic … has represented New Zealand and Australia at age-group level. Photo credit: Melbourne Victory.
This story was first published on June 28, 2025.