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De La Harpe Headed For European Challenge

Sydney FC has agreed to the transfer of Liberty A-League Women’s defender Deborah-Anne De La Harpe with a European club for next season.

De La Harpe joined the Sky Blues at the start of the last campaign, helping the squad to win the Championship and Premiership double.

The experience helped the 23-year-old gain selection in the Republic of Ireland national squad, and she made her debut against China in Spain in February this year.

Deborah-Anne De La Harpe received a Republic Of Ireland call-up when playing for Sydney FC

She has now gone on to secure a professional contract overseas.

“Not everyone gets to play alongside some of their best friends, let alone win trophies with them,” she said.

“I’m grateful for the season and everything I have learned which has no doubt prepared me for this next chapter in my football career.”

Head Coach Ante Juric congratulated De La Harpe on her move.

“I’m delighted for Deborah-Anne to be able to progress her career in this way and take on a new challenge in Europe,” he said.

De La Harpe in action at centre-half against Western United.

“She deserves it and I’m very pleased Sydney FC can once again be the catalyst to provide a young Australian player with a successful pathway to European professional football.”

The defender follows the likes of Caitlin Foord, Alanna Kennedy, Chloe Logarzo, Claire Wheeler, Remy Siemsen, Ally Green and Amy Harrison who have all secured professional contracts overseas from Sydney FC.

De La Harpe made 15 appearances for the Sky Blues in the double winning campaign.

Meanwhile Sky Blues striker Rola Badawiya will also leave the club after nine appearances and one goal last term.