Matildas forward Hayley Raso has signed on the dotted line with Spanish giants Real Madrid. -AAP Image
Matildas winger Hayley Raso will be playing her club football at one of the sport's biggest names next season after clinching a deal with Spanish giants Real Madrid.
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The 28-year-old Raso, who is set to play a key role for Australia in the upcoming World Cup on home soil, moves to Madrid after three years in England's Women's Super League with Everton and Manchester City.
The Queenslander began her career with Canberra United and has also featured for Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory, as well as having spells in the US with Washington Spirit and the Portland Thorns.
Runners-up to European champions Barcelona in Liga F in Spain, Real Madrid finished the season empty-handed after losing the Copa del Reina final on penalties to neighbours Atletico.
Having knocked Raso and City out of this season's Champions League, they will again feature in Europe's premier competition next year.
"Hola Madridistas," Raso posted on Twitter on Saturday. "I cannot wait to get started."
Other Australians to have played in Spain's top flight include Alex Chidiac (Atletico Madrid), Beattie Goad (Granadilla Tenerife), Aivi Luik (Levante) and Jenna McCormick (Real Betis).
Raso and the Matildas will get their World Cup campaign underway when they play Ireland at Stadium Australia on July 20.
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