Wellington Phoenix’s new goalkeeper, Victoria Esson, has described her return to New Zealand as a “remarkable opportunity” after signing a one-year contract with the Ninja A-League club.
After spending seven-and-a-half years in Europe, the Kiwi number one shared her joy and pride upon finalising an agreement that will see her don the Nix jersey for the 2025-26 season.
“It’s thrilling for me. During my search for a professional contract, opportunities in New Zealand were scarce, which compelled me to head overseas and ultimately land in Norway,” she remarked.
“Returning home after seven and a half years to have the chance to play here is a phenomenal opportunity. I can’t wait to get started.”
Having been born and raised in Christchurch, Esson made the move abroad to advance her career due to the limited prospects available in New Zealand.
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Beginning her professional journey overseas in Scandinavia, Esson later represented clubs such as German outfit SC Sand and Scottish titans Rangers before making the move back to New Zealand, where she will play in the Ninja A-League for the first time.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Europe, yet I find myself missing New Zealand. I truly love New Zealand,” said the shot-stopper when discussing her motivation for returning home.
“With my contract at Rangers drawing to a close, I was keen to seek new opportunities. When the Phoenix presented itself, they made a compelling case and appeared well organised.”
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“The Australian League is fiercely competitive, and I felt this was a timely opportunity to come back home.”
She added: “I appreciate the highly competitive nature of the league, and it seems that the top teams can change from season to season.”
“That prospect excites me, as it indicates that last season’s standings may not reflect this season’s outcomes, whether for better or worse.”
“So, that’s an exhilarating possibility for me, as everything is up for grabs.”
In what has been an eventful off-season for the Phoenix, Esson is the club’s fourth signing following the arrivals of former Adelaide United star Lucia Leon, American defender Ellie Walker, and 44-time Dutch international Tessel Middag.
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“It’s a challenging league and closely contested, so you can’t merely aspire to win it and expect to succeed,” she commented.
“We must sign the right players to position the team for a legitimate chance at the title, alongside the coaching staff’s ability to manage the team and secure results over the season.”
“The ambitions are high, and I believe they are within reach, but we’ll find out how things unfold once the season kicks off.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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