Brisbane Roar can today announce that defender Leia Varley has secured an immediate transfer to 1. FC Nürnberg in the German first division, Frauen-Bundesliga for a significant undisclosed fee.
After joining the Roar ahead of the 24/25 Ninja A-League season, Varley quickly became a mainstay in Alex Smith’s squad following a Premiership-winning campaign with Melbourne City.
Leading Brisbane Roar from the backline, Varley has made 30 appearances in orange and has been a brick wall in defence this season, making 102 clearances, 15 blocks, and 20 interceptions, with an 85.2% tackle success rate. The 24-year-old scored her first A-League goal in Roar’s record 8-2 win over Western United at Ironbark Fields in December 2024.
Speaking on departing the club, Leia said, “I am really excited to go overseas and make the most of this amazing opportunity for me and my career and I want to thank the club for being so supportive in this process.
“I am so grateful for my time at Brisbane Roar where I have taken my football to the next level. I want to say a big thank you to the fans who have supported me from the start, I can’t wait to see how far the girls go this season.”
Speaking on Leia, head coach Alex Smith said, “Whilst we are sad to see Leia depart, I’m an extremely excited for her as she departs for the German first division. Leia was one of my first signings, so to see her earn a move overseas is pleasing.
“She has played an enormous role in the football we have played so far this season, and it is a testament to the level in which she has competed that a club like 1. FC Nürnberg has secured her.
“We wish her the very, very best for the next part of her journey.”
Brisbane Roar thank Leia for her contribution to the club over the past two seasons and wish her well in the next step of her footballing journey.
