Louis Verstraete leaves Auckland FC as an A-League Champion after two stellar campaigns that saw the much-loved player lift both the Premiers Plate and Champions Trophy.
Louis joined the club as his first overseas venture, having previously played exclusively in his homeland of Belgium, and quickly became the first name on Steve Corica’s team sheet each week.
The central midfielder has departed Auckland FC to return to Belgium for personal and family reasons. The club received an undisclosed transfer fee as part of the move, and thanks Louis for his outstanding contribution during his time with Auckland FC. The club wishes him and his family every success and happiness as they begin this next chapter.
He was awarded the club’s MVP award last season and was a member of the PFA Team of the Season in what has been a dominant two years in black and blue for Verstraete.
“I have enjoyed my time here in Auckland; the fans, coaches and my teammates welcomed me with open arms,” said Verstraete.
“I’m incredibly sad to leave, but some things in life are sadly bigger than football.
“Being involved in the first game in a club’s history was special for me, and adding two trophies along with it has made my time in Auckland an experience I will never forget.”
Louis will return home to Belgium to spend time with friends and family while he looks to what’s next in his career.
“He was a standout in the middle of the park for us and a huge part of our success in the first two seasons,” says Auckland FC Director of Football, Terry McFlynn.
“While it’s disappointing to lose Louis, we fully understand his family situation, and we wish him all the very best for the future. Louis will forever be a massive part of our club’s history.”
