New A-League club Auckland FC have confirmed the signing of All Whites defender Nando Pijnaker after media speculation that he was on his way from Irish club Sligo Rovers.
“He’s going to be a fantastic player for us. He’s technically very good and is very strong in the air which means he is a threat both defensively and also in attack,” Auckland’s head coach Steve Corica said.
“He’s a natural leader and I’m confident he will fit right in alongside his All White teammates and the rest of the group. He’s going to be a real asset for us both on the pitch and in the dressing room.”
Main photo: New Zealand international Nando Pijnaker. Photo supplied by Auckland FC.
Pijnaker (25) had been linked to Auckland FC after Sligo Rovers confirmed a deal had been struck with a New Zealand club.
READ MORE: Reports link All Whites defender Nando Pijnaker to A-League club Auckland FC >>>>
Pijnaker said: “I’m delighted to be coming back to New Zealand. Steve has shared his ambitions for the club, and it’s an exciting time for football in Auckland.
“I can’t wait to meet up again with the boys; there are some familiar faces already there and everyone has told me that Steve and the team are building a great squad.
“I’ve played all over Europe, but New Zealand is home, do my bit to help to grow the club and play in front of our home fans is a massive opportunity.”
Pijnaker played for Ngongotaha, Western Suburbs and Eastern Suburbs in New Zealand before heading overseas in 2019 and building a professional career leading to his regular inclusion in All Whites squads.
This story was first published on September 3, 2024.
More football stories
