Yeah that's interesting. Wonder if AFC will try lure him back to Auckland, and their MOU pathways.
The Nix definitely seen to be giving young players an earlier chance of playing in the A League. But then AFC now has it's reserve team AFC II playing in the OFC Pro League.
The talent scouting is going to heat up in NZ, between the two ALM clubs. Especially at that U16 & under level. Annual U17 WCs showcasing a new wave of talent every 12 months.
https://www.friendsoffootballnz.com/2025/12/10/youngsters-land-all-expenses-paid-stay-with-english-premier-league-club/
The experience will include flights, accommodation and training alongside their age-group equivalents. There may also be a chance to watch a Premier League fixture, should dates allow. The package has been organised by Auckland FC as part of their multi-club ownership model.
The Nix definitely seen to be giving young players an earlier chance of playing in the A League. But then AFC now has it's reserve team AFC II playing in the OFC Pro League.
The talent scouting is going to heat up in NZ, between the two ALM clubs. Especially at that U16 & under level. Annual U17 WCs showcasing a new wave of talent every 12 months.
https://www.friendsoffootballnz.com/2025/12/10/youngsters-land-all-expenses-paid-stay-with-english-premier-league-club/
The experience will include flights, accommodation and training alongside their age-group equivalents. There may also be a chance to watch a Premier League fixture, should dates allow. The package has been organised by Auckland FC as part of their multi-club ownership model.
Cruz Pietersen has played at West Coast Rangers since he was four.
In 2025, he joined the Wellington Phoenix academy and represented New Zealand at the OFC U-16 Championships, winning gold and qualifying for the FIFA U-17 Men’s World Cup next year.