Sydney FC star Sarah Hunter has signed a three-year contract with French top-flight outfit Paris FC.
Liberty A-League champions Sydney accepted a bid from the D1 Feminine club after Hunter won two Premierships and a Championship with the Sky Blues.
The 19-year-old midfielder, who was crowned the league’s Young Player of the Year last season, will now go head-to-head with Matildas star Ellie Carpenter and her defending champions Lyon in France.
She also has the chance to play UEFA Women’s Champions League football. Paris FC are in the qualifying phase and should they beat Ukraine’s Kryvbas Kryvyi Rih, it would set up a clash with Arsenal – home to Australian pair Caitlin Foord and Steph Catley.
“This is the opportunity of a lifetime for me and I’m so thankful to the help and support I’ve had at Sydney FC to be able achieve my dream of playing in Europe,” Hunter said.
“I’ve had an unbelievable two years as part of this squad and my game has gone from strength to strength at this club.
“I’d like to thank all of the girls and coaching staff, particularly Ante [Juric] for the faith they have shown in me and helping to open this door for me.”
Hunter joined Sydney in 2021, crossing the divide from rivals Western Sydney Wanderers.
She amassed 37 appearances – a career-high 21 last season – and scored five goals for the club. Four of those goals came as the Sky Blues clinched the Premiership and Championship double in 2022-23.
Hunter was an integral part of the team that beat Western United 4-0 in the Grand Final.
“Sarah fully deserves this opportunity to test herself against some of the best players in Europe,” said Sydney head coach Ante Juric.
“She has been phenomenal since she joined us last year and was one of the big reasons we’ve been so successful during that time.
“I’m delighted we’ve been able to help her progress and I’ve no doubt she will be a huge success overseas and eventually play many times for the Matildas.”
Since conquering the league, Sydney have lost Deborah-Anne De La Harpe, key duo Madison Haley and Rachel Lowe and Rola Badawiya, while the Sky Blues remain in discussions with Matildas star Courtnee Vine.
Paris FC, meanwhile, finished third last season – 19 points behind champions Lyon and 13 adrift of Paris Saint-Germain.
