Auckland FC have confirmed Shrewsbury Town loanee Max Mata has returned to his parent club at the completion of his contract with the Black Knights.
Mata, an Auckland native, joined the Isuzu UTE A-League expansion side for the club’s inaugural season and played 19 games in the Premiership-winning campaign.
Mata scored two goals and notched three assists through his 19 appearances under head coach Steve Corica but a hamstring injury prevented him from contributing to Auckland’s Finals Series push, ad the Black Knights fell short in a two-legged Semi-Final loss to Melbourne Victory with Mata on the sidelines.
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With his loan spell in Auckland complete, Mata thanked his teammates, the staff and the club’s supporter base for making his one season at the Black Knights an experience he’ll never forget.
“It has been an incredible year in Auckland, one I’ll never forget,” Mata said.
“I am from Auckland so the ride we’ve had feels that little bit more enjoyable. Winning silverware, getting to lift the Plate in front of our fans, that was special.
“The support I’ve received over the past 12 months has meant so much to me. The Port, the families, the kids, the staff and my teammates. I’m really going to miss it. Thank you for everything. For all the good times and the memories.”
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Auckland head coach Corica thanked Mata for his contribution to the Premiership success in 2024-25 and wished him well for his return to Shrewsbury Town in England’s League Two.
“He’s a great character, a good player and we’ll certainly miss him,” Corica said.
“He worked well alongside May. He was able to create chances and make space for his teammates. Shrewsbury is a good club with a reputation for developing talent. I am sure they will look after him there. We wish him all the best for the future, and he’ll always be welcome around the club.”
