Charlton Athletic have announced the signing of midfielder Leah Davidson. This marks the club’s second signing this week, after welcoming Anna Koivunen on Wednesday.
The Aussie will be joining the Addicks on a two-year contract. It comes after she spent the previous six years with Melbourne City in the A-League Women.
Her Time in Melbourne
The Midfielder has spent the last six years playing for Melbourne City over in Australia. She first joined in November 2020, and became one of the club’s most important defensive midfielders.
During her time there, she became the central figure to the team, making 107 appearances in total. She leaves as the third most capped player in the team’s history.
Melbourne City have won three consecutive Premierships on the bounce, supported by Davidson’s defensive ability, winning the title by a six-point margin over Wellington Phoenix this term.
For her dedication to the team, the City centurion received the Melissa Barbieri award in her debut and final seasons. The club expressed deep gratitude for her time there.
Ahead of her move to Charlton Athletic, she spoke fondly of her time at Melbourne:
“My time at Melbourne City has shaped me so much as both a player and a person, and I’ll always be grateful for everything the Club has given me,” Davidson said.
“The teammates, coaches and staff I’ve shared this journey with have had an enormous influence on my career, and the friendships and memories we’ve created together will stay with me forever.
“Pulling on the Melbourne City shirt more than 100 times has been an incredible honour, and I want to thank everyone for the support they’ve shown me throughout my time at City. I’ll always look back on these six years with enormous pride.”
Other Achievements
The experienced player began her career with Palm Beach juniors, where coaches believed that she “had something special”, even from the age of thirteen.
She then made her senior debut with Brisbane Roar FC, joining the club in October 2018. She remained there for two seasons, before signing for Melbourne City.
The Australian international has made four appearances for her country, scoring a goal in the process. She made her senior debut in November 2024.
A Move to Charlton Athletic
The 25-year-old has now signed for Charlton Athletic on a two-year contract. This will mark her Women’s Super League debut, and the first time she has played outside of Australia.
Speaking of the move, she discussed her excitement for the future with the Addicks:
“I am so excited to be here and be a part of something so special. It was so nice to walk in on day one and meet everyone. Everyone’s been really welcoming, and I’m just so excited to be here
“I spent six years at Melbourne City, and honestly can’t say a bad word about the club. Loved it, grew as a player and a person, but I thought I can’t say no to this opportunity, and I can’t wait to get started.”
She also discussed which teams she is most looking forward to facing:
“I’d probably say the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Man City, all of them big clubs. I know it’ll be challenging, but I’m so excited for them.”
A Good Choice For Charlton?
After being promoted to the expanded WSL last season, Charlton Athletic need to ensure that they are signing experienced players. After making two new signings just this week, they are on the right track.
Davidson has proven her ability to perform under pressure. Her service to Melbourne City over the past six seasons has proven that she can support clubs to move up and win titles and now she will hopefully help Charlton to remain in the WSL.
Her mindset is also one of someone who wants to do well for her team. The excitement she expressed to play big clubs bodes well for her future with the Annicks.
