Emily Gielnik signs for Aston Villa

Emily Gielnik is the latest Commbank Matilda to put pen to paper,  with Aston Villa announcing the Aussie forward to their team this morning.

Subject to international travel clearance, Gielnik will make the move from Swedish club Vittsjö GIK, donning the number nine shirt for Aston Villa for their FAWSL 21/22 campaign.

With 40 caps to her name and a wealth of international experience playing across Europe, Gielnik caught the attention of Aston Villa Manager, Carla Ward.

“Emily is someone we’ve monitored for a few months and I’m delighted we’ve managed to agree on a deal that suits all parties," Ward told avfc.co.uk who had shown interest in Gielnik prior to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

"Australia did really well at the Olympics, but I'm not going to lie, the moment they were eliminated I was on the phone to her manager asking how much time she needed.

“She’s a player with a wealth of domestic and international experience, and is a player that can score goals at the highest level.

“Emily’s link-up play and aerial threat is something that will cause teams problems. I’m pleased to finally get this one over the line.

"Emily's delighted, the girls are delighted - she's made an impact already and given the girls an instant lift," Ward continued.

"We're just delighted because she had a lot of options throughout Europe, she's a highly recognised striker around the world and this is a really important signing."

Gielnik shared on Twitter that she was excited for the new chapter ahead and couldn't wait to kick things off, while her new team expressed their excitement, sharing one of Gielnik's well-known goals against Korea Republic.

You can stay up to date on Emily and the Matildas' progress overseas through our Matildas Abroad updates.