Two time defending W-League champions Melbourne City have signed three key players for the upcoming 10th season.

Matildas defender Alanna Kennedy, Japanese World Cup winner Yukari Kinga and NWSL Rookie of the Year Ashley Hatch have joined an already talented squad as City looks to claim an unprecedented third W-League championship.

Kennedy joins from Sydney FC alongside new City signing Kyah Simon.  The 22 year old is one of Australia's premier defenders and will join Matildas defensive teammates Lydia Williams and Steph Catley.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be here at Melbourne City. To join a Club which has created history in the W-League is exciting and I feel this is the perfect place for me to continue my development as a player.”

“I’m looking forward to working with the team and learning from such an experienced coach in Patrick. He will push me and challenge myself to be the best player I can be and I can’t wait to get started.”

Meanwhile Japanese international Kinga joins after a stand-out season with Canberra United helping the capital side to the 2016/17 premiership.

“City provides me with a new and exciting challenge which I am extremely grateful for," said the 33 year old.

"I have only been in this environment for a week, but already it has been fantastic to see how the team and the Club is set up so professionally and provides everything a footballer needs to succeed.”

Meanwhile American Ashley Hatch heads out to Australia after a breakthrough first season in the NWSL which saw the forward awarded the Rookie of the Year as she helped North Carolina Courage to the NWSL Shield.

Alongside the trip, City have also completed their roster with the signings of 2016 NPL Goalkeeper of the Year Emily Shields, Geelong Galaxy shot-stopper Emily Kenshole and 15-year-old defender Lia Muldeary.

City kick off their season in a grand final re-match with Perth Glory at nib Stadium this Friday night.