Wales' Hughes Departs Melbourne City for Overseas Move
Laura Hughes, named Melbourne City's player of the year for the 2023-24 season during her debut year at the club, has left the Australian side as she pursues a new opportunity abroad.
The 25-year-old midfielder, who switched her international allegiance from Australia to Wales in late 2025, has made a promising start with Rhian Wilkinson's Welsh national team.
Hughes concluded her contract with Melbourne City after playing a key role in securing a domestic double in the 2025-26 season. Over three years, she made 69 appearances for the club, which described her contribution as "a pivotal role in one of the most successful eras in the club's history."
"Laura became one of the leaders within our group, established herself among the competition's best midfielders and earned the opportunity to take the next step in her career overseas," said Melbourne's director of football Michael Petrillo.
During her tenure at Melbourne, Hughes earned a single cap for Australia in a friendly against Chinese Taipei in 2024 before committing to Wales the following year. She debuted for Wales in a friendly victory over Switzerland in December and, after recovering from an injury, made two substitute appearances in the final matches of Wales' Women's World Cup qualifying group phase last month.
"I want to thank everyone who has been a part of my journey at City and wish the club the best of luck for the future," Hughes stated.
Career Background
Hughes began her professional career at age 15 with Canberra United, her hometown club. She then had a stint playing in Iceland before returning to Canberra. Following a brief period with Manly United, she transferred to Melbourne City.
