Western United has continued to add top Victorian talents to its inaugural Liberty A-League Women squad, with Francesca Iermano signing on for the 2022/23 season.
After debuting in the A-League Women last season with three appearances on an injury replacement contract for Melbourne Victory, Iermano will return to the competition on a full-year deal for the first time.
The 22-year-old has been a key player for South Melbourne in NPLW Victoria this season after previously lining up for FV Emerging and Bulleen Lions.
A versatile player with equal qualities on both sides of the ball, Iermano said she is delighted to join the Green and Black and continue to develop her game in the A-League Women.
“The Club has worked so hard to get the approval to have a team in the A-League Women and to know that I’m going to be a part of the Club’s history is unbelievable,” she said.
“The Club was very successful last season with the men’s and to achieve this in a few years is a testament to the Club’s ambition. Hopefully we can replicate that and continue to add to the Club’s success.”
Iermano added that having a taste of the competition last season gives her extra determination to have an impact in the Green and Black this term.
“Being able to have the opportunity to play last season was massive for me. Now that I’ve got a taste of what it’s like, it has left me hungry and wanting more,” she said.
“That is why I’m hoping to bring this passion and drive that I have from the start of the season.”
Western United Head Coach Mark Torcaso has witnessed Iermano’s development firsthand when coming up against her in NPLW throughout the years, and sees a player that is ready to make an impact if given the opportunity at the top level.
“Francesca’s development has really taken big strides forward in the last couple of years in particular and I’m really excited to bring her in,” he said.
“She’s another young talent from Victoria that we’re excited to work with and nurture, but I also know that she is ready to make an impact immediately for us.
“Her versatility will be key for us throughout the season, because I know I can depend on her in any number of positions wherever I need her to play.”
Iermano made two starts for Victory last season, each in wins against Western Sydney Wanderers and Wellington Phoenix before coming off the bench against Adelaide United.
Throughout her time at South Melbourne she has been used in midfield, attack and defence and will use that versatility to good effect in the Green and Black.
