Star goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln is departing Western United after just one A-League Women’s season.
Western announced that Lincoln had made the decision to depart the club at the conclusion of her contract.
Lincoln made 15 appearances in goal this season and kept two clean sheets.
In her time as a Western United player, Lincoln played at the FIFA under-20 women’s World Cup before earning her first Matildas call-up in October, a milestone which was quickly followed by her senior national team debut in December.
Western football general manager Mal Impiombato thanked Lincoln for her contributions. .
“On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to thank Chloe for her contributions and wish her every success with her next steps,” he said.
“Being part of our first full season at home at Ironbark Fields, Chloe has been a valued member of our group.
“As a club, we are proud to have supported Chloe in achieving her debut with the Matildas and we look forward to continuing to watch her career progress.”
Lincoln said Star Weekly late last year that joining Western was a good challenge for her.
“It seemed like a really positive move,” she said. “To dive into a more professional set up and the facilities that are available,” she said at the time.
“The club having its own home and the coaching staff were incredible. It just seemed like a positive environment and keep growing and pushing myself out of my comfort zone.”
With the off-season only just beginning, Western United will continue to shape its squad.
The club announced that Julia Sardo had signed on for next season.
A foundation player at the club, Sardo had her most consistent season last season, including 17 starts.
After re-committing at Ironbark Fields, Sardo said continuing for a fourth season was an easy decision.
“It means a lot to be returning to Western United for my fourth season. This club and team hold a special place in my heart and I’m proud to wear the green and black again,” she said.
“I’m excited to be back at Ironbark Fields and I’m pumped for what’s ahead. Hopefully we’ll see even more fans getting behind us next season, your support means everything.”
Impiombato said Sardo’s position as a foundational piece of the squad was important to maintain.
“Julia has been one of the key drivers in our program since day one and it is integral to keep hold of people like her at our club,” he said,
“Her consistency and commitment on the pitch is matched by her driven personality off the pitch, connecting with our community as we continue to aim high in the Ninja A-League.
“We look forward to Julia having another positive impact on our squad and our entire club in the 2025-26 season.”
