Windbichler began his career for Austrian Bundesliga clubs FC Admira Wacker and FK Austria, earning youth international caps for U18s through to U21s.

The 28-year-old then moved to the K-League's Ulsan Hyundai and won the Korean FA Cup and was named in the 2018 K-League 1 Team of the Year.

“I like challenges and experiences," said Windichler today.

"I spent the last two years in South Korea where we had a game in Melbourne [AFC Champions League clash with Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park] and since the moment I stepped foot in this city, I was in love.

"I just want to be part of this club and make my footprint [in Australia].”

He added: “I’m a centre back who likes to ask for the ball and play with the ball at my feet. I would say that the build up is one of my greatest strengths, as well as the defensive one-on-ones.

“Melbourne City is an ambitious club that wants to compete for trophies and that is my goal too and in the best-case scenario we become champions, which is only possible with the fans support.

"I’m looking forward to meeting the fans at the first opportunity.”

Melbourne City Director of Football Michael Petrillo welcomed the new signing, just 24 hours after the club named Erick Mombaerts as their new coach.

“Richard joins Melbourne City having demonstrated an ability to perform at an exceptionally high level both in Europe and Asia,” said Petrillo.

“He has experience in the Asian Champions League and has tasted success in South Korea winning an FA Cup and making the Team of the Year list.

“Richard is an intelligent defender that is comfortable in possession and able to start attacking moves from the back."