The Wellington Phoenix have made Ellie Walker their second visa signing for the 2025-26 Liberty A-League season.
The American, 25, spent last season at SC Braga, helping them qualify for the UEFA Champions League with a third-place finish in the Campeonato Nacional Feminino, Portugal’s top division.
Previously, the centre-back played two seasons for fellow Portuguese side SCU Torreense, and featured in the American college system for two-time national champions Portland University.
Interim Phoenix head coach Amy Shepherd is delighted to have secured a player with Walker’s profile.
“Ellie had three successful seasons in Portugal’s top-flight league, including her recent stint at Sporting Braga,” Shepherd said.
“She is a ball-playing centre-back known for her commanding presence both defensively and with the ball.
“Her skill in progressing play and moving the ball forward perfectly aligns with our vision for the team’s style of play.
“With a strong winning mentality, Ellie brings the perfect blend of youth and experience, and we’re excited to have her join our Phoenix whanau.”
Walker is looking forward to the next chapter in her career.
“I spent three years in Portugal, I knew the league really well, and felt that it was time to look at other leagues,” she said.
“I was really interested in what the Wellington Phoenix are looking to do, and also in the league itself.”
“You know how the football world is, it’s so small. I had a teammate who had played in the A-League, and I’d heard really good things about it.
She is confident she can add a physical edge to the team this season.
“I’m very tall and also strong, and my aerial presence can make me a threat offensively and defensively.
“On the ball, I think I have good vision and a range of passing, and I can play on the left side or the right side.
“My ability to adapt can help benefit the team.”
While New Zealand is a world away from both Portugal and her hometown of Vancouver, Washington, she can’t wait to be “immersed.”
“I’ve never heard a negative thing about New Zealand.
“I think learning about the culture of the country, in the research that I’ve done, I’m really interested and excited to get to live there.
“My family are just excited I have a new opportunity in a new league, and can continue to grow.”
And building a relationship with the Yellow Fever is high on her priority list.
“Having a really strong fanbase is so good. As someone new, that’s really encouraging to have.
“Sometimes fans don’t even really realise how important it is, but to players, that energy you can feel when you play at home goes so far.
“I’m so excited to be a part of that, meet the fans, and really feel like I’m a part of the club.”
Ellie Walker is the 11th player confirmed in the Wellington Phoenix 2025-26 first team squad, with more signings and re-signings expected to be announced in the near future.
