Remarkable Talent Targets Matildas Return After Three-Year Absence

Melbourne City ace Holly McNamara is keen on making a comeback to the CommBank Matildas ahead of the SheBelieves Cup next month in the United States.

After overcoming her third anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, McNamara has returned to fitness and is back to scoring in the Ninja A-League.

The three-time international for Australia made her first starting appearance in 433 days last week, celebrating the milestone with her third goal of the season, contributing to City’s unbeaten run in the 2024-25 season.

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The 2025 SheBelieves Cup will be held in the US, where the Matildas are set to compete against Japan (February 21), the USA (February 24), and Colombia (February 27) in their inaugural appearance at this esteemed four-nation tournament.

Having been called up for the Matildas squad in November 2023 before her ACL setback, McNamara has not featured for the national team in three years, with her three caps achieved during the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

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“Absolutely,” McNamara replied to reporters when questioned about her aspirations for the upcoming SheBelieves Cup with the Matildas.

“Any opportunity to be considered for selection for your country is something you definitely desire.”

“I’m in a positive mindset at the moment, so if that opportunity arises, that would be fantastic. But I’m mainly just focused on this game, taking it week by week.”

As City prepares for a thrilling derby against Melbourne Victory this Saturday, McNamara remarked: “Right now, my focus is solely on Melbourne City. If the chance comes up, I’d be incredibly fortunate to receive that opportunity again.”

“I’m just keen for this game, and we’ll see what happens from there.”

City’s head coach, Michael Matricciani, shared his thoughts on McNamara and whether this would be the ideal time for the 22-year-old to rejoin the national team.

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“She’s an outstanding talent. I know she has already been part of the Matildas setup,” he stated.

“When the right time is for her to return is a decision for the selectors and Tom (Sermanni) as the coach to make.

“Could she step in during the break and play a full 90 minutes? I doubt it.

“However, if she’s up for 60 minutes or to come off the bench to reacquaint herself with that level of play, then I think she definitely should be considered.”