Auckland FC’s talismanic goalkeeper, Alex Paulsen has returned to AFC Bournemouth following an incredibly successful loan spell with the Black Knights.
Paulsen played all 2430 minutes for Auckland FC, keeping 13 clean sheets and being part of the first ever New Zealand side to lift A-League silverware.
He arrived from the Bill Foley owned Premier League Club in August 2024, living proof of the opportunities that now exist for young Kiwi football talent through Auckland FC and its multi-club network in the European top leagues.
“Alex is a fantastic player and a true professional,” says head coach Steve Corica. “He made a huge impression on us, his teammates and the city. He’ll be missed but he leaves us after a highly successful season and one I’m sure he will look back on fondly.
“All season he has performed; he is a great shot-stopper, commanding in his area, a fantastic influence in the dressing room and at 22 he has a very bright future ahead of him. We all wish him the best for the future, and we will be closely following his career.”
Paulsen returns to the Cherries after collecting a heap of personal awards, including Isuzu UTE A-League Men Goalkeeper of the Year, Save of the Year, and for the second-year running was voted captain of the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) team of the year.
“It has been a wild 12 months, better than I could ever have dreamed of,” says Paulsen.
“I’ve had an incredible experience and grateful to all the fans, my teammates and coaches and staff that have supported me. They have really helped me develop as a player and a man.”
Paulsen made numerous high-quality and high-profile saves for Auckland FC, most notably his lightening quick save away against Melbourne Victory – a save that won him his A-League Save of Year award.
Paulsen’s progress has been keenly tracked by parent club AFC Bournemouth.
“We’re really looking forward to welcoming Alex back to England. His individual achievements, as well as those achieved by Auckland in their inaugural season in the A League, are something to be proud of,” says Tiago Pinto, President of Football Operations at AFC Bournemouth.
“We’re excited to work with Alex when he returns to Bournemouth in July and would like to extend our thanks to Auckland for their key role in his development.”
“I’m looking forward to returning to Bournemouth and embracing whatever opportunities lie ahead,” says Paulsen.
“But I won’t forget where I’m from. I started my career here with Onehunga Sports, my friends and family are all here, so being able to play here and lifting the plate has meant a lot to me. I’ve loved it all, especially spending time with fans post-match. That’s when you really feel the love.”
