Auckland FC’s head coach, Steve Corica, is “pretty sure” that Alex Paulsen will not continue in the Isuzu UTE A-League this season, as the talented goalkeeper aims to take his career to “the next level” overseas.
Currently on loan from Premier League club Bournemouth, Paulsen showcased his individual brilliance by playing a pivotal role in Auckland’s 2-0 victory over Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park on Saturday night.
Leading 1-0 as the match approached the 85th minute, the Kiwi goalkeeper made an extraordinary save to deny Nikos Vergos, a feat that Melbourne’s coach Arthur Diles described as “world class.”
“This is just unbelievable,” exclaimed former A-Leagues player Erik Paartalu during the commentary for Network 10. “This could very well be the save of the season.
“It’s behind him. That was going in for all money. That has no right to be kept out of the net, Alex Paulsen.”
Paulsen has cemented his status as one of the top goalkeepers in the Isuzu UTE A-League, having been awarded the Goalkeeper of the Year with Wellington Phoenix for the 2023-24 season, which led to Bournemouth acquiring the 22-year-old.
Speculation surrounds a potential move to Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership, who are part of the Black Knight Group alongside Bournemouth and Auckland.
Addressing Paulsen’s future in the post-match conference and whether he is ready to secure a starting position internationally, Corica told reporters: “I don’t think we will (be able to keep him).
“He needs to go. He’s had two great seasons, and like everyone, he wants to compete at a higher level.
“He is under contract with Bournemouth. I’m uncertain where he will end up next season, but I’m fairly confident it won’t be with us unfortunately. That’s just how it goes.
“He had an excellent year last year, and although he fell short towards the end, I hope we can help him achieve success this season, not only by winning the Premiership but also clinching the Grand Final.”
This season, Paulsen has achieved 11 clean sheets, and Corica remarked: “He is a confident player and an exceptional shot-stopper, as you can see.
“There are aspects of his game he can refine, and he is aware of that.
“But he is an outstanding goalkeeper with numerous strengths. He just needs to keep developing, and he’s on the right path.
“Playing at the next level will certainly aid his improvement, and I’m confident he will.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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