A-League: Season Reviews and What’s Ahead for Auckland FC and Wellington Phoenix

By Eddie Meireles

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The A-League Men’s Finals Series brought the curtain down on a season of contrast for New Zealand’s two professional football clubs — Auckland FC and Wellington Phoenix.

Auckland FC, also known as the Black Knights, etched their name into history by becoming the first-ever New Zealand club to win the Premiership in their debut season. Their electric run ended with a semi-final defeat to Melbourne Victory, but the foundations are firmly set for a bright future.

Meanwhile, Wellington Phoenix endured a steep decline, finishing 11th on the ladder and bottom of the form table — a dramatic fall from their previous campaign’s success.

🔄 Auckland FC: Transitioning Into Contenders

Head coach Steve Corica has already shifted focus to 2025–26. The departure list is growing. Standout goalkeeper Alex Paulsen returns to Bournemouth, though a loan to Scotland’s Hibernian is rumored. Striker Max Mata is also on his way out, alongside Neyder Moreno, who has chosen not to renew his deal.

Veteran Scott Galloway hasn’t played since January and is expected to land at another A-League club. One bright spot: Luis Toomey, though out of contract, is likely to re-sign.

Young stars Dan Hall and Louis Verstraete remain under contract but could attract overseas offers — a challenge for Auckland if top-level European clubs come calling.

With Moreno’s departure freeing up a visa slot, speculation is swirling. Despite rumors, Kosta Barbarouses was never in Auckland’s plans — he appears set for Western Sydney.

Internally, the club is leaning toward giving Michael Woud the reins in goal rather than recruiting a new first-choice keeper.

🔁 Wellington Phoenix: Stability Over Revolution

After another disappointing season, Phoenix need more than just a rebuild — they need continuity.

Club stalwart Barbarouses exits, along with defenders Scott Wootton and Sam Sutton, who are Perth Glory-bound. Mid-season addition Chico Geraldes will not return, with a knee injury derailing his chances of a permanent deal. Forward Stefan Colakovski and third-choice keeper Dublin Boon are also off contract.

Unlike past off-seasons, a full-scale exodus isn’t expected. The squad will retain more core players, giving the team a better chance to regroup.

Two visa slots remain open, and a key decision looms over whether to use one on goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi. Precision in recruitment will be critical for a club desperate to climb back into finals contention.

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