Galabadaarachchi: A Journey Through Global Women's Football
The career of Galabadaarachchi is a testament to versatility and ambition, spanning several of the most competitive football leagues in the world. From early beginnings in Australia to professional stints in England, Italy, Scotland, and Portugal, her trajectory highlights a relentless pursuit of growth in the women's game.
Key Facts
- Professional Debut: Signed with Melbourne City in 2016 at age 15.
- Global Experience: Has played in Australia, England, Italy, Scotland, and Portugal.
- Position: Primarily played as a striker during her early career.
- Most Recent Move: Joined the Italian club Sassuolo in August 2025.
Early Career and Australian Roots
Galabadaarachchi first made waves in October 2016 when she signed with Melbourne City for the 2016–17 season. At just 15 years old, she stepped into the professional environment, making five appearances primarily as a striker. Following this period, she sought further development in England, training with various professional teams. However, due to being under the age of 18, she was unable to sign a professional contract despite receiving offers.
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Returning to Australia, she continued her development by signing with Perth Glory for the 2018–19 W-League (Women's League) season, further establishing her presence in the domestic circuit.
Venturing into Europe
The next phase of her career saw a move to the English FA WSL (Women's Super League), one of the most prestigious leagues globally. In July 2019, Galabadaarachchi secured a move to West Ham United.
Her European journey continued with a move to Italy in September 2020, where she signed on loan with Napoli. This period allowed her to adapt to the tactical nuances of Italian football before moving north to Scotland.
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The Scottish and Portuguese Chapters
In February 2021, Galabadaarachchi joined Celtic in the SWPL (Scottish Women's Premier League). She remained with the club for over two years until July 2023, when Celtic confirmed her departure.
Immediately following her exit from Celtic, she signed with the Portuguese side Sporting CP in July 2023, extending her experience across the Iberian Peninsula through 2025.
Current Status and Recent Moves
Continuing her history with Italian football, Galabadaarachchi joined Sassuolo in August 2025, marking the latest chapter in her international club career.
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Career Summary Table
| Club | Country | Period |
|---|---|---|
| Melbourne City | Australia | 2016–2017 |
| Perth Glory | Australia | 2018–2019 |
| West Ham United | England | 2019–2020 |
| Napoli | Italy | 2020–2021 |
| Celtic | Scotland | 2021–2023 |
| Sporting CP | Portugal | 2023–2025 |
| Sassuolo | Italy | 2025–Present |
Frequently Asked Questions
How old was Galabadaarachchi when she first signed a professional contract?
She signed with Melbourne City in October 2016 at the age of 15.
Why couldn't she sign a professional contract in England initially?
Despite receiving offers while training with professional teams in England, she was unable to sign a contract because she was under 18 years old.
Which leagues has Galabadaarachchi played in?
She has played in the Australian W-League, the English FA WSL, the Scottish SWPL, and professional leagues in Italy and Portugal.
When did she join Sassuolo?
Galabadaarachchi joined the Italian club Sassuolo in August 2025.
How long did she play for Celtic?
She signed with Celtic in February 2021 and left the club in July 2023.