Why did Tim Payne leave the Wellington Phoenix?

Payne left after his viral World Cup moment drew attention from South American clubs. Olimpia identified him as a target and offered a pathway to compete in the Copa Libertadores, a step up in competition level.

How much did Club Olimpia pay for Tim Payne?

The transfer fee was not disclosed by either party. The deal is reportedly structured to reflect Olimpia’s valuation of Payne’s viral exposure and A-League experience.

When will Tim Payne make his Club Olimpia debut?

He is expected to debut in Olimpia’s Copa Libertadores qualifier in early August, pending a successful medical. The second leg of the qualifier is the likely venue for his first appearance.

What is Club Olimpia’s track record in South America?

Olimpia is a 48-time Paraguayan league champion and one of South America’s most successful clubs domestically. They have also won the Copa Libertadores three times and the Copa Interamericana twice.

How does this transfer impact New Zealand football?

It sets a rare precedent for an Oceania-based player moving directly to a top-tier South American club, potentially inspiring similar moves and raising the profile of the A-League and All Whites pathways.

Tim Payne leaves A-League for Paraguay’s Olimpia after World Cup fame

Wellington Phoenix fullback Tim Payne seals a blockbuster move to Club Olimpia, trading A-League football for Paraguayan powerhouse status and Copa Libertadores football.

ByKostadin Stamboliev1 sourcePublished Jul 1, 7:28 PM

Tim Payne leaves A-League for Paraguay’s Olimpia after World Cup fame

New Zealand international Tim Payne is swapping the A-League for South American giants Club Olimpia in a career-defining transfer announced Monday. The Wellington Phoenix fullback, whose World Cup moment went viral, has agreed to an undisclosed fee with the 48-time Paraguayan champions. The move is subject to a post-transfer medical and clears the path for Payne to compete in the Copa Libertadores while reconnecting with his family’s Paraguayan heritage.

Tim Payne leaves A-League for Paraguay’s Olimpia after World Cup fame

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