Auckland FC have signed New Zealand international Nando Pijnaker as they ramp up preparations for their debut Isuzu UTE A-League campaign.
Pijnaker joins the competition’s newest club following a two-year spell with Sligo Rovers in Ireland’s Premier Division.
The 25-year-old “globe-trotting” defender was born in the Netherlands before relocating with his family to New Zealand aged three.
Pijnaker’s career has taken him to Swiss outfit Grasshoppers, Torslanda IK in Sweden and Portugal’s Rio Ave.
“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; to do my bit to help to grow the club and play in front of our home fans is a massive opportunity.”
Pijnaker is Auckland FC’s 22nd signing ahead of their inaugural Isuzu UTE A-League campaign.
Steve Corica’s side have signed Cameron Howieson, Michael Woud, Francis De Vries, Jesse Randall, Max Mata, Tommy Smith, Luis Toomey (scholarship contract), Liam Gillion (scholarship contract), Finn Mckenlay (scholarship contract), Adama Coulibaly (scholarship contract), Oliver Middleton (scholarship contract), Jonty Bidois (scholarship contract), Dan Hall, Scott Galloway, Callan Elliot, Joey Champness, Jake Brimmer, Hiroki Sakai, Logan Rogerson, Joseph Knowles and Alex Paulsen (on loan from Bournemouth).
Auckland will begin their season against Brisbane Roar at Go Media Stadium on October 19.
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“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,” said head coach Steve Corica.
“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.”
