Australian international forward Hayley Raso has become the latest player to join Manchester City’s women’s team.
A versatile forward, Raso can play across the front line as a striker or winger and will wear the number 2 shirt for the forthcoming season.
The Brisbane-born player, 26, spent 18 months with Everton, helped the Toffees reach the Vitality Women’s FA Cup final, and achieved a fifth place finish in the Women’s Super League last term.
Prior to switching to England, Raso had previously spent time in her homeland with Canberra United, Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory and had stints in the United States with Washington Spirit (2015) and Portland Thorns FC (2016-2019).
She has won W-League titles with Brisbane and Canberra, and was also successful with Portland, securing the NWSL Championship and Shield during her time in the States alongside being named as Rose City Riveters’ Most Valuable Player in 2017.
For Australia, Raso has been a full international since 2012 and has earned over 50 caps for the Matildas, helping them to Tournament of Nations and FFA Cup of Nations successes in 2017 and 2019 respectively.
Speaking about her move, she said: “It feels amazing – I’m just so excited to be here at this huge Club.
“Having played in the WSL last season, I really liked the league – it’s very tough and competitive and being able to come to a team like City who are up there fighting for all the trophies and playing in the Champions League, it’s an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.
“Personally, I feel like I can fit in well with the team’s style of play – when I met with Gareth [Taylor], he spoke so highly of the Club and squad as a whole, and I knew that it was definitely the place I wanted to be.”
Head Coach Gareth Taylor added: “We’re delighted to add Hayley to our already talented squad here at City.
“She has proven her ability and versatility in the FAWSL over the last couple of seasons with Everton and also brings lots of international experience to the table.
“She impressed during the recent Olympic Games too and we’re really looking forward to working with her over the next few years.”
Managing Director Gavin Makel concluded: “We’re thrilled to welcome Hayley to the Club, who is a fantastic acquisition to the team.
“She is a highly experienced international player who is full of tenacity and ambition whilst demonstrating the values of what this team is about.”