A-League Champions Auckland FC are pleased to announce the appointment of Pedro Moreira as Head Coach.
The 51-year-old Moreira began his managerial career in Portugal with S.C.U Torreense in 2022 and then Casa Pia A.C. He was most recently in Uzbekistan with Pakhtakor FC, guiding the club to the later stages of the AFC Asian Champions League and at the beginning of their ride to a second-place finish.
Prior to that, the Portuguese was formerly the Assistant Manager at FC Porto, FC Shakhtar Donetsk and AS Roma, working alongside the highly successful Paulo Fonseca. The pair started working together with F.C Paços Ferreira in 2012/2013 and went on to manage some of Europe’s top sides, winning trophies in Portugal and Ukraine.
Moreira started his career working with various Portuguese youth teams. In 2009 he joined Sporting CP’s youth set-up, supporting with the development of several current Portuguese internationals.
“Coming in to coach this side in a country that is still developing its love of the beautiful game is a unique opportunity that I can’t wait to get started with,” says Moreira.
“This is a young club, but a highly successful club that has set the bar in terms of performance. It’s already won two trophies alongside the best fans in the league.
“Being able to bring more success here and to continue to develop these exciting young players is something I’m really looking forward to.”
The search for a coach began a little over a month ago with the departure of former Head Coach Steve Corica. Moreira was appointed by Auckland FC after utilising the support of the extensive Black Knight Football Group network.
Pedro Moreira’s first competitive game in charge will be on August 26 against Al Ahli (Saudi Arabia) in the 2026 FIFA Intercontinental Cup, before the A-League season kicks off in Auckland on October 17.
Moreira joins a refreshed Auckland FC backroom with Luke Casserly, Assistant Coach; Rafael Moreira, Head Analyst; Nathan Sherlock, Head of Performance; and Danny Milosevic, Goalkeeper Coach, joining the new Head Coach in the dugout.
BILL FOLEY
“After an extensive search, Pedro was someone who really stood out for us,” said Foley.
“Off the back of the club’s successful first two seasons we wanted to maintain that momentum and appoint someone who would come into the league and be a step above the rest. We believe Moriera is that person.
“He’s got a wealth of experience, 15 years at a senior level in Europe, 10 years in youth development roles. Pedro is the guy to keep this team right at the top of the A-League and bring more silverware to the city.”
NICK BECKER
“Everyone at the club is excited by the hiring of Pedro Moreira,” said Becker.
“He has credentials from some of the top clubs in the world, and when his name came up in the coaching search, we knew he was the guy. He really impressed us during the interview stage with his tactical knowledge and understanding of our ambition, connection to the city and direction as a club.
“The fans can feel confident and assured going into the new season.”
TERRY MCFLYNN
“Replacing Steve was always going to be a big challenge, but we took our time and now have someone who the club has a lot of confidence in.
“Pedro brought into the vision of our club, particularly our focus on youth and developing player pathways.
“We now have our coaching line-up for the season settled. Everyone at the club is now keen to get started as we continue preparation for season three.”
KEY DETAILS
- Moreira joins as Head Coach ahead of the 2026/27 A-League campaign
- Brings significant experience from clubs including Roma, Porto and FC Shakhtar Donetsk
- All coaching staff now in place for upcoming season
