Luik was a key member of City's historic three-peat championship winning side between 2015 and 2018, in which she anchored the Melbourne midfield with aplomb.

While the experienced midfield general had already won a title with Brisbane Roar, it was really the beginning of Luik's sensational overseas career.

Luik went on to represent Notts County, Valerenga (with whom she won a league title) Levante and most recently, 10 appearances and a Norwegian Cup trophy for Norwegian top flight club Avaldsnes.

All in all, it's one of the most varied and successful foreign careers for a Matilda in Australian history and now Luik's back, at 34-years-old, with a point to prove.

"I'm really happy to be returning to play with Melbourne City for the upcoming 2019/20 W-league season," Luik said.

“It's a club I called home for three seasons before playing in Spain last year and in its short history, has won many titles and championships.

“I’m hungry for more of that success and with the same hard work, dedication, high standards and a good group of people, we will have a very good chance of creating more history.”

City director Michael Petrillo said Luik was a foundation of what the club hope to achieve again under Rado Vidosic.

“An incredibly consistent performer, Aivi has been a crucial figure in the Club’s previous success," he said.

“Aivi displays great composure in the middle of the park where she utilises her strong distribution. She provides great leadership and experience, following several seasons abroad. As a Club, we believe that her inclusion to our midfield gives us a huge boost ahead of the upcoming season.”

Luik is joined by experienced W-League campaigner and 17-cap New Zealand international Rebekah Stott in City's ever-expanding lineup of phenomenal stars.

In their path tonight however, are Heather Garriock's strike-force heavy Canberra United side, boasting a lineup with arguably the league's deadliest, most experienced attackers.

It's set to be a thrilling showdown.

PLUS...

Brisbane Roar v Melbourne Victory player ratings

A classic Thursday night encounter with Casey Dumont literally saving her new team against her old one.