The ins and outs, plus who is returning, for the new A-League Women’s season

One of the A-League’s most sought after players is off the market, with Michelle Heyman putting pen to paper. ERIN SMITH takes a look at how every club is faring ahead of the new season.

Matildas super striker Michelle Heyman has re-signed with Canberra United for a ninth season - giving the struggling club a massive boost ahead of the 2024/25 season.

The 36-year-old told CODE Sports she was being chased by clubs across Australia and around the world after her incredible return to form last year - which resulted in her being recalled to the Matildas squad for the first time since 2019.

Heyman scored 17 goals for Canberra, the highest of any other player, to claim the golden boot.

It wasn’t enough for the club though who finished last on the ladder.

But under new coach Antoni Jagarinec, who was key to winning the race to Heyman’s signature, they could prove a force to be reckoned with this year.

Michelle Heyman is staying with Canberra United. Picture” Will Russell/Getty Images

The striker had come very close to making a move overseas to the English WSL - a leaked photo from West Ham showing Heyman in a Hammers’ jersey. But it is understood both parties couldn’t reach an agreement on contract length.

While it is understood most A-Leagues clubs were chasing the striker, Jagarinec was the only one willing to confirm how badly he needed Heyman in his squad.

Heyman was part of the Canberra side that won the W-League titles in 2011/12 and 2013/14 - a feat she will be desperate to repeat.

“We are thrilled that Michelle has elected to continue her career in green with us here at Canberra United,” Jagarinec said.

“Michelle is unarguably one of the most famous footballers around at the moment, a leading light for the Matildas and a goalscorer of some repute. As our leading scorer last season, she was an inspirational figure to our squad, both on and off the pitch, and I have no doubt she will continue to be so.

“Her time with Canberra United has seen Michelle become our leading appearance maker, leading goalscorer, and earn legendary status. We are excited to see her continue her fantastic journey with us.”

Michelle Heyman has spent nine seasons with Canberra. Picture: Jono Searle/Getty Images

Heyman said she was “excited” to re-sign with the club.

“The club is special to me, and I have enjoyed every minute of my career with Canberra. I am feeling incredibly good, physically and mentally, and am ready to hit the ground running in the new season,” Heyman said.

“Playing in Canberra, and in front of our amazing supporters, has been up there with some of the best highlights of my career. I have made many memories playing for Canberra United and am looking forward to creating many more with Ant, the coaching and backroom staff, my teammates, and the fans.”

HOW EVERY CLUB IS SHAPING UP FOR THE SEASON

Originally published as The ins and outs, plus who is returning, for the new A-League Women’s season