Louis Verstraete departs Auckland FC as coaching search continues

By Oliver Bennett — 21 July 2026 — 3 min read

Auckland FC has announced the departure of prominent midfielder Louis Verstraete, who is returning to his home country of Belgium for personal and family reasons. The club confirmed the move in a statement, noting that an undisclosed transfer fee was received as part of the agreement. Verstraete’s exit adds to a series of player departures from the club following its recent championship-winning season.

Verstraete was a key figure for Auckland FC during its inaugural season, consistently featuring in the starting lineup. His robust playing style and strong work ethic quickly established him as a dominant presence on the field and made him a favourite among supporters. During his two campaigns with the club, he contributed significantly to their success, helping them secure both the Premiers Plate and the Champions Trophy.

Last season, Verstraete’s contributions were recognised with the club’s MVP award, and he was also named in the PFA Team of the Season. His departure marks the end of a successful period for the player, who described his time in Auckland as an unforgettable experience, particularly being involved in the club’s first-ever game and winning two trophies.

Terry McFlynn, Auckland FC‘s Director of Football, acknowledged Verstraete’s impact, stating that he was a standout performer in the midfield and played a crucial role in the club’s achievements over its first two seasons. McFlynn expressed understanding for Verstraete’s family situation and extended best wishes for his future endeavours, highlighting his lasting legacy within the club’s history.

Verstraete’s move back to Belgium comes as Auckland FC navigates a period of change, including efforts to align its budget with salary cap regulations. The club had been exempt from these regulations during its initial two seasons. This financial adjustment has coincided with several other player exits since the championship victory.

Among the other players who have left are Dan Hall and Guillermo May, both of whom were popular with fans. Loan player Jake Girdwood-Reich, whom Auckland FC had reportedly considered retaining, has since signed with Motherwell FC in Scotland. Former goalkeeper Alex Paulsen also joined Motherwell FC. Additionally, emerging talent Jesse Randall has moved to Dundee United in Scotland and made his debut recently.

Search for a new manager

The club is also actively searching for a new head coach following the departure of Steve Corica, who left in June to coach Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan’s J-League. The search for a replacement is ongoing, with the club’s chief executive, Nick Becker, having previously stated an intention to have a new coach in place before this weekend’s match.

According to reports from last week, Terry McFlynn indicated that a preferred candidate for the coaching position had been identified. This candidate is reportedly awaiting approval from club chair Bill Foley. McFlynn mentioned that the club had conducted interviews with various candidates and believes they have selected the right individual to lead the team forward.

Despite the departures, Auckland FC has made some new additions to its squad. All White Lauchlan Bayliss has joined the team after a successful season with the Newcastle Jets. Midfielders Cam Howeison and Felipe Gallegos have extended their contracts, as has goalkeeper Michael Woud.

Further strengthening the squad, defender Ronan Wynne and Norwegian midfielder Daniel Normann have been promoted from Auckland FC‘s OFC Pro League side. Scholarship players Bailey Ferguson, Van Fitzharris, and Isa Prins have also been called up to the first team.

These developments come just days before Auckland FC is scheduled to play Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur in a pre-season clash at Eden Park. The match is set to take place on Sunday, July 26.

The upcoming game against Tottenham Hotspur will be broadcast live and free on TVNZ+ and TVNZ 2, starting at 2:30 PM on Sunday.

Source: 1news.co.nz