Tim Cahill has left Melbourne City.

“Melbourne City FC and Tim Cahill have mutually agreed that Cahill will depart the club, effective immediately,” the club announced on Wednesday.

Cahill said in a statement:

“Playing in the domestic league in Australia was always an important career goal for me, and my experience here has been fulfilling from start to finish. The welcome from fans, the quality of the facilities and the ever-increasing quality of football continues to be a source of immense pride.

“I want to thank Melbourne City, the players and the staff, and especially the fans. It was amazing to help bring the first piece of silverware to this Club, and this makes me very proud. My experience here has been great and I have enjoyed contributing to the culture inside the Club, being asked to take on a leadership role and, most importantly, being able to mentor a lot of the younger players – something I will continue to do in the future. I wish the Club, Head Coach, players and all the fans all the very best for the rest of the season.  It’s never easy to say goodbye but it was great to win last weekend and make a contribution, and also to have the Club sitting third in the league.

“Qualifying for the World Cup has been a great adventure, and it would be a massive honour to represent my country in Russia. That will be my focus in the coming months.”