The Brisbane-born forward joins having spent the past 18 months with fellow Barclays FA Women’s Super League side Everton, helping them reach the final of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup and achieve a fifth-place finish last season.
An exciting and versatile player capable of playing either up front or on the wing, Raso has put pen to paper on a contract that will see her remain at the Academy Stadium until the summer of 2023 - and will wear the No.2 shirt.
BUY THE 2021/22 WOMEN’S HOME KIT
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.”
Prior to her switch to Everton in January 2020, the 26-year-old had figured for the likes of Canberra United, Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory in her homeland, coupled with stints in the United States with Washington Spirit (2015) and Portland Thorns FC (2016-2019)
Winning W-League titles with Brisbane and Canberra, Raso 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.
On the international stage, she has represented Australia at senior level since 2012 and to date has earned more than 50 caps for the Matildas, helping them to Tournament of Nations and FFA Cup of Nations successes in 2017 and 2019 respectively.
Reflecting on his new signing, 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.”
Seasoncards for the 2021/22 women’s season are now on sale.
