Today we’re delighted to announce that another All White has decided to join Auckland FC. Please join us in welcoming Nando Pijnaker to the club.
Nando joins us following a two-year spell with Sligo Rovers in Ireland’s Premier Division.
The 25-year-old centre back brings a significant amount of European experience to the club, as well as Ireland, he’s played in Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland and Portugal.
In fact he’s spent his whole life globe-trotting. Born in Brummen, Netherlands, Nando moved with his family to Rotorua, New Zealand aged three.
“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.” says 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.”
Nando becomes our 22nd signing ahead of their debut season starting with a home game against the Brisbane Roar on October 19. Tickets to that game are now on sale. We’re expecting a sell-out so don’t delay.
His previous clubs include Grasshoppers Club Zurich in Switzerland, Torslanda IK in Sweden and Rio Ave in Portugal. He has 15 caps for New Zealand.
Get your tickets now to watch him all season!
Nando Pijanker
Age: 25
Position: Centre Back
Last Club: Sligo Rovers,
Home town: Rotorua
Experience: 15 All White Caps, 2018/19 New Zealand Champion, 2017, 2019 Central League Champion, 2016/17 OFC U19/U20 Champion, 2020 Oly Whites Tokyo Olympic Squad, 2019 New Zealand U20 World Cup Squad
“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. 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. Now I’m here to do my bit to help to grow the club and play in front of our home fans is a massive opportunity.”
Nando Pijanker
