Matthew Spiranovic (born 14 May 1988) is an Australian professional soccer player who primarily plays as a central defender. He has represented the Australia national team and has played for clubs in Australia, Europe, and Asia.
Early life and youth career
Spiranovic was born in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, to a Croatian‑Australian family. He began his youth career with local clubs, including the South Melbourne FC youth system, before joining the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) program in 2005.
Club career
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Crawley Town (2006–2007) – After his stint at the AIS, Spiranovic moved to England and signed with Crawley Town in the Conference National, where he made a handful of appearances.
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Melbourne Victory (2007–2011) – Returning to Australia, he joined A-League side Melbourne Victory. Over four seasons, he accumulated 69 league appearances and scored three goals, contributing to the club’s 2008–09 A-League Premiership and Championship victories.
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Urawa Red Diamonds (2011–2015) – In January 2011, Spiranovic transferred to Japanese J1 League club Urawa Red Diamonds. He made 71 league appearances and was part of the squad that won the 2011 J.League Cup.
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Jeonnam Dragons (2015–2016) – He moved to South Korea’s K League 1, signing with Jeonnam Dragons and appearing in 24 league matches.
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Seongnam FC (2016–2017) – Continuing in the K League, Spiranovic played 28 league games for Seongnam FC, helping the club secure promotion to the K League 1.
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Western Sydney Wanderers (2017–2020) – Returning to the A-League, he joined Western Sydney Wanderers, making 49 league appearances and scoring two goals.
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Perth Glory (2020–2022) – He signed with Perth Glory, featuring in 37 league matches and scoring once.
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Melbourne Victory (2022–present) – In 2022, Spiranovic re‑signed with Melbourne Victory, adding further experience to the defensive line.
International career
Spiranovic represented Australia at various youth levels, including the U‑20 team at the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship. He earned his senior debut for the Socceroos on 28 May 2009 in a friendly against South Africa. Over his international career, he accumulated 31 caps and scored one goal, participating in the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign and the 2011 AFC Asian Cup, where Australia finished as runners‑up.
Style of play
A left‑footed centre‑back, Spiranovic is noted for his aerial ability, positional awareness, and composure in possession. His versatility allows him to play as a left‑back when required.
Personal life
Spiranovic holds dual Australian and Croatian citizenship, reflecting his family heritage. Outside of football, he has been involved in community outreach programs, particularly those promoting youth participation in sport.
Honours
Melbourne Victory
- A-League Premiership: 2008–09
- A-League Championship: 2008–09
Urawa Red Diamonds
- J.League Cup: 2011
Australia
- AFC Asian Cup runner‑up: 2011
Career statistics (selected)
| Club | Seasons | League Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne Victory (first spell) | 2007–2011 | 69 | 3 |
| Urawa Red Diamonds | 2011–2015 | 71 | 0 |
| Jeonnam Dragons | 2015–2016 | 24 | 0 |
| Seongnam FC | 2016–2017 | 28 | 0 |
| Western Sydney Wanderers | 2017–2020 | 49 | 2 |
| Perth Glory | 2020–2022 | 37 | 1 |
| Melbourne Victory (second spell) | 2022–present | — | — |
International – 31 caps, 1 goal (2009–2015).
References
- Australian Institute of Sport records.
- A-League official statistics.
- J.League and K League match archives.
- FIFA match reports for Australia national team.
Note: All data reflect publicly available records up to April 2026.