Wellington Phoenix have signed Netherlands international Tessel Middag for the Ninja A-League 2025-26 season.
Middag’s arrival is another statement signing for the Phoenix, who have already lured Dominican Republic international captain Lucia Leon to Wellington.
The decorated 44-time Dutch international Middag makes the move to New Zealand after four seasons at Scottish giants Rangers, where she won three trophies.
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Middag, who represented the Netherlands at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, has also won silverware with Dutch giants Ajax and Women’s Super League juggernaut Manchester City, having spent time at West Ham and Fiorentina.
“That was one of the things that excited me when I spoke to Amy,” said the 32-year-old midfielder. “I would love to win something with this club and be part of the first Phoenix team to lift a trophy.
“At all of the clubs I’ve played for we’ve competed for trophies and I want to be able to do that in Wellington.”
“During initial discussions with the Phoenix, I asked about the facilities, how many fulltime staff members there are, what the training surface is like and those kinds of things,” Middag continued.
“I learnt that the Phoenix have extremely good facilities. I haven’t been able to see them with my own eyes yet, but NZCIS looks amazing on the videos and the pictures.
“I’m quite excited about the daily interaction between the different sports teams at NZCIS, whether it’s football, rugby or any other sport.”
Middag is the 12th player confirmed in Phoenix women’s squad for the 2025-26 campaign, with further signings and re-signings to follow in the coming weeks.
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“We are delighted to welcome Tessel to the Wellington Phoenix whānau,” said interim Phoenix head coach Amy Shepherd.
“Tessel brings a wealth of experience to the club, having earned more than 40 caps for the Netherlands and played for some of the top clubs and leagues in the world — including Ajax, Manchester City, West Ham, Fiorentina and most recently Rangers FC.
“Her technical quality and leadership are qualities we’re excited to add to the team.
“A versatile player, Tessel has spent much of her career in midfield, while recently excelling as a centre-back at Rangers.
“Her passing range, combined with her ability to create and score goals, will be a tremendous asset. Off the pitch, Tessel is known for her humility and work ethic.
“She will no doubt help unlock the potential of our top young talents and bring invaluable experience and a winning mentality to key moments, having already lifted silverware at the highest levels.”
