Western United Enters A-League Hibernation Amid Liquidation

Western United Football Club has been placed into "conditional hibernation" for the 2025-26 A-League season due to ongoing legal and financial challenges, including the liquidation of its owner, WMG Football Club Limited, and the withdrawal of its A-League licence. The Australian Professional Leagues (APL) decided to proceed with the upcoming men's and women's seasons without Western United, reducing the men's league to 12 teams and the women's to 11. Players from both squads, including notable midfielders, have been declared free agents amid the club's uncertain future, allowing them to sign with other teams during the transfer window. Appeals and reviews concerning the club's licence withdrawal and liquidation are ongoing, with hearings scheduled but no final decisions yet. The APL emphasized the importance of due process and sees this hibernation as a way for Western United to reset financially and operationally, with hopes of rejoining the league in the 2026-27 season. The club's academies remain active, maintaining a pathway for young talent despite the pause in competitive play.