Wellington Phoenix have confirmed the release of Oskar Van Hattum from the remainder of his Isuzu UTE A-League contract to join Irish outfit Sligo Rovers.
Van Hattum leaves Wellington for the League of Ireland Premier Division, where the forward has signed for Sligo Rovers in 2025.
The move ends the 22-year-old’s eight-year association with the Phoenix, having joined the club’s academy as a 14-year-old.
BUY TICKETS TO THE ISUZU UTE A-LEAGUE!
Van Hattum departs with 41 A-Leagues appearances in three-and-a-half seasons, though he was limited to four games in 2024-25.
“It’s really, really difficult to put into words all of the emotions that are coming through because ever since I knew what football was I’ve been a Wellington Phoenix fan,” said Van Hattum, who featured in 17 matches during Wellington’s historic campaign last term.
“I feel really lucky and privileged to be able to say I was a Wellington Phoenix player for eight years.
“I’ve been here for over a third of my life so I’m stepping away from home, all of the amazing people I’ve worked with and all of the teammates that have helped me get to where I am.
“It’s sad to finally be making the decision to leave but at the same time there’s a certain level of excitement jumping into what I would almost consider an unknown, considering how inaccessible the Irish league is in New Zealand.
KING KOSTA: What joining exclusive A-Leagues club would mean to an icon chasing ‘the big one’ in Wellington
JAPAN? Chiefy responds to rumour and reveals Phoenix’s transfer plans
“And I think that’s what’s exciting about this move to have new surroundings, new faces and new opportunities.
“It’s also best for my career going forward to go and get gametime. The more minutes I get the more I’m able to show what I’m able to do.
“It’s time for a new challenge and I’m really looking forward to it.”
DEEP DIVE: In-form A-Leagues star’s numbers shine light on Socceroos case
‘WE SHOULD BE PROUD’: Coach’s powerful A-Leagues message that everyone needs to hear
Wellington director of football Shaun Gill added: “Following ongoing discussions with OVH about his playing future at the club, we agreed that it was best for him to pursue this opportunity.
“We look forward to following him at Sligo Rovers and we hope to see another of our academy graduates kick on with his professional career.
“OVH’s departure also creates further opportunities over the back half of this season for the next wave of academy grads.”
