Max Mata

Starting at such a young age taught me a lot about resilience and hard work. Each experience, from my time in Switzerland to playing in the US and Ireland, has helped me grow both on and off the pitch. It’s all about learning and adapting, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had.

Playing in different countries exposed me to various styles of football. My loan at Nõmme Kalju was particularly beneficial. I made my professional debut there and scored 12 goals in 20 appearances. It was an intense environment, but it helped me develop my game and understand what it takes to succeed at a higher level.

After my time in Estonia, I played for Real Monarchs and then signed with Sligo Rovers, where I was named Young Player of the Year. It meant a lot to me. Getting that recognition was a validation of all the hard work I put in. I finished the 2022 season with seven goals and four assists in the league, which was a great achievement for me. It motivated me to keep pushing myself and strive for even more success.

Shrewsbury offered a great opportunity for my career progression in League One. The club has a strong reputation for developing young talent, and I felt it was the right step for me. I wanted to challenge myself at a higher level and continue to grow as a player.

Playing alongside Nando, who I’ve shared experiences with before, makes settling into a new team easier. We understand each other’s playing styles and have built a strong rapport over the years. It’s great to have that connection, especially in a new environment like Auckland.

Auckland FC has a lot of ambition, and being part of something new is energizing. The team has a great mix of talent, and I’m looking forward to contributing to our success. The support from the fans has been incredible, and I can’t wait to perform for them.

My main goal is to help the team achieve score goals, of course! I want to make an impact on the pitch and help build a strong foundation for the club.