Women’s World Cup 2023: Matildas star Cortnee Vine reveals transfer talks, Sydney FC future

Cortnee Vine is one of two Matildas’ playing in the A-League Women’s competition – but that might not stay the case after the World Cup.

Cortnee Vine is one of just two Matildas playing in the A-League’s Womens competition – it isn’t lack of offers that has kept her in the Sky Blues kit – but that could all change after the World Cup.

All Vine has to do is say ‘yes’ to one of the many clubs itching for her signature.

Vine and Clare Hunt (Western Sydney Wanderers FC) are the only players in the World Cup squad playing in the Australian domestic league – all 21 other stars are fresh off seasons overseas in England, Europe or America.

The 25-year-old is yet to re-sign with Sydney FC for the 2024 season – with the club and Vine in “discussions” over her future.

It is no secret the W-League has a long way to go before it matches it with what the big overseas clubs can offer in terms of facilities, training, game pressure, competition and even their supporter base.

Cortnee Vine celebrate winning last year’s A-League Women's title. Picture: Getty

Vine has just won her third premiership in a row with Sydney FC – she joined after stints at Western Sydney Wanderers, Newcastle Jets and Brisbane Roar.

Before she joined the Sky Blues, Vine had considered retiring – giving up the sport for good – due to lack of progression and a path forward.

But a chance to play under Ante Juric and with players she had grown up with gave her a new found passion.

Vine said she had received offers to play overseas – an opportunity most Australian players would snap up without hesitation.

But the dynamic winger has a strong sense of loyalty and appreciates what the A-League Women’s competition has given her.

“The A-League made me who I am,” Vine said.

“I don’t think I would be (in the Matildas) if I didn’t do all the years in the A-League. I worked really hard in the A-League and it is not an easy league to play in, I think it’s quite difficult.

Vine has won three titles in a row with Sydney FC – but could be on the move. Picture: Getty

“I get to be at home, around people that I love and be around a team I love and a coach that believes in me. I think that’s what I need.

“Some people need challenge, some people need other things to get better with their football, but for me I needed that stability and that loving environment for me.”

The ever humble Vine said she struggled to comprehend that clubs from outside Australia wanted her to play for them.

With a home World Cup looming Vine stopped short of ruling out taking up one of the offers she had received.

“There has been interest but you have to think about what you want to do with your career and if it's the right move for me at the time,” Vine said.

The 25-year-old forward will get a chance to put herself in the shop window during the World Cup. Picture: Getty

“I’m in discussions with quite a few different clubs and I’m still not certain what I’m going to do, it’s hard.

“A lot of girls go overseas and play and it is expected, to an extent, that you should go over as well.

“It is nice to know I could take the opportunity if I wanted to, there are opportunities coming and I’m hoping there will be more to come post this World Cup.”

Originally published as Women’s World Cup 2023: Matildas star Cortnee Vine reveals transfer talks, Sydney FC future