Viral NZ star nets move as coach quits A-League champs
Payne’s viral rise drew interest from clubs across Latin America and Mexico before the New Zealand defender agreed to a one-year deal.
- On Friday, New Zealand defender Tim Payne confirmed he signed a one-year deal with Paraguayan club Olimpia, capping his sudden rise to global social media fame during this year's World Cup.
- Argentinian influencer Valen Scarsini launched a campaign to boost Payne's profile after identifying him as the World Cup player with the smallest social media following. Payne's Instagram audience grew from 4,700 to 5.8 million.
- Previously playing for the Wellington Phoenix in the A-League Men, Payne expressed excitement about joining one of South America's biggest clubs, stating, "I am looking forward to rising to that challenge."
- The defender's viral popularity attracted interest from clubs across Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Mexico, while Olimpia recently won Paraguay's Copa de Primera Apertura title for the 48th time.
- Payne aims to test himself in the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana, competitions he views as the pinnacle of South American football and the most incredible professional opportunity available.
27 Articles
27 Articles
New Zealander Tim Payne was named "unknown player of the World Cup" by an influencer before the World Cup. That's why millions know him now.
LancasterOnline
Independent EspañolWELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand defender Tim Payne, who went viral thanks to a campaign by an Argentine influencer, confirmed Thursday that he will play next season with Club Olimpia of Paraguay.
World Cup: New Zealand’s viral soccer star Tim Payne signs with Olimpia in Paraguay
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand defender Tim Payne, who achieved viral fame after being singled out by a soccer influencer ahead of the World Cup, has confirmed he will play for Club Olimpia in Paraguay.
The Toronto Star
NewsdayWorld Cup: New Zealand's viral soccer star Tim Payne signs with Olimpia in Paraguay
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand defender Tim Payne, who achieved viral fame after being singled out by a soccer influencer ahead of the World Cup, has confirmed he will play for Club Olimpia in Paraguay.
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