A-League champion Louis Verstraete heading home

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Author: RNZ ,
Publish Date: Tue, 21 Jul 2026, 8:42pm

Auckland FC midfielder Louis Verstraete has returned to Belgium for personal and family reasons. Photo / Photosport

By RNZ Sport reporters

Auckland FC have lost another player from the A-League championship winning squad with midfielder Louis Verstraete returning to Belgium after two seasons.

The club said he had gone home “for personal and family reasons” and he will continue his career with a local club. Auckland received an undisclosed transfer fee as part of the move.

Verstraete joined Auckland as his first overseas venture, having previously played exclusively in his homeland.

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.

“I have enjoyed my time here in Auckland; the fans, coaches and my teammates welcomed me with open arms,” Verstraete said.

Verstraete, awarded the club’s MVP last season, was part of the PFA Team of the Season. Photo / Photosport

“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.”

Auckland FC director of football Terry McFlynn said Verstraete had been “standout” in the middle of the park.

“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.”

Despite assurances a new coach would be in place for Sunday’s game against English Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur at Eden Park, the club said on Tuesday, when they announced Verstraete’s departure, they did not have news on any appointment.

This story was first published on rnz.co.nz