Auckland FC has just announced the signing of Alex Paulsen, a former Phoenix goalkeeper, which goes against A-League rules. This is a significant development in the football world. The club promoted the signing on social media this morning. The league announced the ‘Caceres Rule,’ which restricts player movement.
The ‘Caceres Rule’, a pivotal regulation introduced in 2016, was a direct response to Manchester City’s controversial signing of Anthony Caceres, a player they had no intention of playing. This rule was a game-changer, aiming to prevent overseas clubs from exploiting the transfer market by purchasing players and then loaning them to sister clubs, thereby disrupting the balance of the league.
It’s worth noting that both AFC Bournemouth and Auckland FC are under the ownership of Bill Foley, an American billionaire with a significant stake in the football world. Foley, who also holds French Ligue 1 club FC Lorient and the Las Vegas Golden Knights NHL franchise, is a key player in the global sports industry.
The A-League released a statement yesterday, revealing that several clubs had approached them in May to review the ‘Caceres Clause’. But due to increased transfer market opportunities for clubs and changes in broader club ownership structures across the league.
Paulsen, born in Auckland, was a standout performer in the last season for the Phoenix, which led them to reach the A-League semi-finals.
New Auckland FC head coach Steve Corica expressed his satisfaction with the addition to his squad. He highlighted Paulsen’s athleticism, strong shot-stopping skills, and commanding presence on crosses.
The Phoenix and Auckland FC are set to play their first game against each other on 2 November at Sky Stadium.
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