A-League newcomers Auckland FC have completed their inaugural roster with the addition of overseas recruits from Chile, Belgium and Uruguay.
Luis Felipe Gallegos, 32, is a veteran midfielder from Chile, with professional experience in his native country, Spain, Mexico and Greece. He has won three Chilean championships and a Copa Sudmericana with Club Universidad de Chile, while also enjoying success with Club Necaxa in Mexico.
Gallegos is a former Chile U20 player who was denied a senior debut when the team cancelled a scheduled fixture against Peru to support social protests at home.
"Luis is an incredibly experienced No.6," said Auckland FC coach Steve Corica. "He’s played almost 400 professional games, won a heap of silverware, has a great range of passing both short and long, and I'm delighted we were able to bring a player of his calibre to the club."
Belgian midfielder Louis Verstraete, 25, is another former age-group international, who has logged more than 50 games for the Beveren club since 2019.
“Louis is a bit younger, but he’s a similar player," said Corica. "A very intelligent midfielder, very organised and a natural leader... another great addition to our team."
Uruguayan striker Guillermo May, 26, has played mainly at home, where he won a Supercopa Uruguaya with Club Nacional, he's also featured in Argentina.
"He's a very technical, creative striker with great movement," said Corica. "He will be looking to link up with the midfield, to drop back if needed, and make those clever runs that get the ball into the opposition box and create goal scoring chances — either for him or his teammates.”
Their arrival brings the roster to 25, as the club tries to supplement its local talent with overseas experience.
“Today’s a huge day for Auckland FC and Auckland," said chief executive Nick Becker. "I’m pleased to be able to welcome our three new additions and am really proud of the team we have built."
Auckland FC kick off their A-League campaign at their Go Media Stadium home against Brisbane Roar on October 19.
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