German adventure awaits: Velupillay departs Victory after seven years

Melbourne Victory's academy graduate Nishan Velupillay, the 25‑year‑old Socceroo, has completed a transfer to German side FC Ingolstadt 04, ending a seven‑year spell that saw him make 141 appearances, score 25 goals and debut against Sydney FC in May 2021.

Academy rise and senior breakthrough

Velupillay progressed through Victory’s Academy and the NPL Victoria ranks, honing his skills in the state competition.

He made his senior debut in a Big Blue clash against Sydney FC in May 2021, marking the start of his professional journey.

Over the next seasons he became a regular, accumulating 141 appearances and 25 goals for the Club, a testament to the Academy’s development pathway.

Transfer details and club acknowledgement

The 25‑year‑old Socceroo completed a move to German side FC Ingolstadt 04 for an undisclosed fee, ending his seven‑year spell with Melbourne Victory.

The transfer was highlighted in the A‑League Transfer CENTRE, with Isuzu UTE branding the 2026‑27 Transfer Centre and a post on Instagram inviting fans to View the Club’s moves.

The transfer follows a Year in which he helped Victory win the Australia Cup and earned Young Player of the Year honours.

“I want to thank everyone connected with Melbourne Victory for making me the person that I am today,” the Socceroo said. “The coaches and staff have helped me develop and excel; my teammates have inspired and pushed me; and the members and fans have given me more support than I could ever have imagined.”

International breakthrough and future outlook

His club performances earned him a Socceroo debut against China, where he scored on his first appearance.

He was later selected for Australia’s squad for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, featuring twice as the team reached the knockout stages.

“We are so proud of the journey that Nish has been on with Melbourne Victory – from being part of our junior set‑up to playing NPL3 to starting for the Socceroos at a FIFA World Cup,” said Director of Football John Didulica. “Everyone at the Club is obviously very close to Nish, and it is clear that he has earned the right, through his contribution to Victory over many years and his emergence with the Socceroos, to experience European football and live that dream.”

Velupillay now looks to establish himself in the German League, aiming to build on his international experience.

His departure leaves a gap in Victory’s midfield, and the Club will look to the Academy to develop the next generation.