Vidmar made the proposal ahead of the Melbourne derby, suggesting that four established clubs from Australia’s lower divisions should be considered for admission to the top flight.
“I think the narrative with South Melbourne has been really positive. In my view, you need four (more) teams in the league ASAP,” Vidmar said, according to Flashscore.
“I don't think we have enough games, the pre-season is too long.”
Vidmar names four clubs for expansion
The Melbourne City manager identified South Melbourne, Marconi, Sutherland Sharks and Adelaide City as potential additions to the A-League.
He believes the four clubs could strengthen the competition while building on their existing football traditions and supporter bases.
“Bring 'em in. It'll make the competition much better,” Vidmar said.
He also argued that a 16-team league would create a more balanced schedule, allowing each club to play 30 regular-season matches before the finals series.
“If you had 16 teams, I think 30 games home and away plus finals is more than enough and I think those teams I've mentioned would be absolutely competitive in this competition,” he added.
South Melbourne's Australia Cup success fuels debate
South Melbourne have emerged as a prominent candidate in the expansion discussion following their historic Australia Cup final victory over Melbourne Victory.
The result renewed calls for established National Premier Leagues (NPL) clubs to be considered for promotion into Australia's top division rather than relying exclusively on newly created franchises.
South Melbourne president Bill Papastergiadis has previously indicated that the club would be ready to join the A-League if an opportunity arose. The club has pointed to its membership base, commercial partnerships and stadium infrastructure as potential advantages.
The discussion has also intensified following Western United's departure from the A-League, which has created an opening for the competition to consider its future structure.
Adelaide City also attract attention
Vidmar singled out Adelaide City as a particularly suitable candidate, citing the club's history and its return to the national spotlight after winning the 2026 NPL South Australia title.
The club earned a place in the Australian Championship, giving it an opportunity to compete against teams from across the country.
Adelaide City also has a significant history in Australian football, including producing players who went on to represent the Socceroos.
Vidmar said the club could be an ideal addition if it had the ambition and resources to make the step up.
A-League expansion remains a wider challenge
Although Vidmar has made a clear case for increasing the number of teams, expansion would require decisions by the relevant football authorities and consideration of each club's financial and operational readiness.
The Australian Professional Leagues would need to weigh the potential benefits of additional fixtures and greater regional representation against the costs of running a larger competition.
For now, Vidmar's proposal adds momentum to the debate over how Australia's top-flight football competition should develop, with established NPL clubs increasingly part of the conversation.
Nigfooty Sports Desk