2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup hero Cortnee Vine is returning to Australia, inking a deal with Melbourne City ahead of the A-League Women’s campaign.

The Sydney FC Championship winning winger has spent the last two seasons in the US with North Carolina Courage in the National Women’s Soccer League, but returns to Australia to link with Michael Matricciani’s side. 

With three Premierships and two Championships under her belt, it is a statement signing by the defending Premiers and Champions, who will also provide her vast experience, explosive speed, dribbling ability and final third threat to the club’s AFC Women’s Champions League campaign as well. 

“I’m really excited to be coming home and joining Melbourne City,” Vine said.

“I’ve watched what City has achieved over the last few seasons and the standards this group continues to set, so the opportunity to come into that environment and be part of a team competing for trophies was really exciting to me.

“My time in the NWSL has helped me grow both as a player and a person, and I’m looking forward to bringing those experiences back to Australia.

“I can’t wait to meet my new teammates, get out on the pitch and do everything I can to help bring more success to the Club.”

It rounds out a big week for the club in terms of luring Australian World Cup stars home, having announced Awer Mabil’s recruitment last week. 

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Cortnee to Melbourne City,” City’s Director of Football Michael Petrillo said.

“To attract a player of Cortnee’s calibre back to Australia is a significant signing for our Club and reflects the environment and standards that have been built within our Women’s program.

“Her pace, directness and ability to threaten opposition defences will add another dimension to our attack, while she also brings valuable experience from representing the Matildas on the biggest stage and competing in one of the world’s strongest leagues.

“Cortnee knows what it takes to win in this competition and we’re delighted to add a player of her quality to our squad as we look to compete for more silverware both domestically and in Asia.”

Vine, 28, has 30 Matildas caps but none more famous than the 2023 World Cup quarter final in Brisbane against France, where she coolly slotted the winning penalty in a 7-6 penalty shootout win that sent Australia to the semi finals.