Mariners sign talented 18-year-old midfielder Alex Bolton

Central Coast Mariners are pleased to announce the signing of 18-year-old midfielder Alex Bolton, with the promising youngster joining the club ahead of the Isuzu UTE A-League 2026/27 squad on a scholarship deal.

Bolton arrives on the Central Coast after a spell in Europe with Swedish giants AIK, after previously being part of Perth Glory’s youth system. 

He has also represented Australia at youth level, playing alongside his new Mariners teammates Haine Eames and Jai Ajanovic for the Joeys. 

A technically gifted, left-footed player who can operate in various midfield roles, Alex will add depth and quality to John Hutchinson’s midfield options for the 2026/27 season – which gets underway for the Mariners on Wednesday against Sydney United 58. 

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Central Coast Mariners Sporting Director Matt Simon said Bolton is another great fit for the Club’s long-term plans.

“Alex is another exciting young player who fits exactly the profile we’re looking to bring into the club,” Simon said.

“He’s a talented midfielder with excellent technical ability, a strong mentality and a real desire to improve every day. At just 18 years of age, we believe in his potential and we’re excited to help him continue his development.

Bolton said he is incredibly proud to join the Mariners and excited to continue his development here. 

“Signing with the Central Coast Mariners is something I’m incredibly proud of. It’s a club that has built a reputation for believing in young players, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of that.”

“From the first conversations I had with the Club, I knew it was somewhere I could continue developing both as a footballer and as a person. The standards here are really high, and that’s exactly the type of environment I want to be in.”

“I’m looking forward to learning from the coaching staff and the experienced players around me, working hard every day and doing everything I can to earn my place. I can’t wait to get started and represent the Club and its supporters.”

Bolton becomes the latest young talent to join the Mariners’ growing squad, reinforcing the Club’s commitment to developing ambitious footballers capable of making an impact at the highest level of Australian football.