All Whites defender Nando Pijnaker has been confirmed for Auckland FC after departing Irish club Sligo Rovers.
The 25-year-old is the ninth All White to join Auckland FC for the upcoming A-League season having played 84 times for the Rovers.
He first joined the Ireland Premier Division side in 2022 on loan from Portuguese side Rio Ave.
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Pijnaker who was born in the Netherlands, grew up in Rotorua and developed his football with Wellington's Olé Football Academy as a teenager.
Auckland FC now have 22 players on their books, including fellow All Whites Michael Woud, Alex Paulsen, Cam Howieson, Tommy Smith, Max Mata, Francis De Vries, Joey Champness and Logan Rogerson.
Coach Steve Corica said Pijnaker would be a "fantastic" player for Auckland.
"He's technically very good and is very strong in the air which means he is a threat both defensively and also in attack.
"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."
Pijnaker suffered a rib injury early in the year which stopped his season after 16 games with Rovers, but now fully fit he was eager to get playing again.
"I'm delighted to be coming back to NZ, Steve has shared his ambitions for the club and it's an exciting time for football in Auckland," said Pijanker
.
"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."
The 2024-25 A-League season kicks off next month.
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