The Wellington Phoenix can confirm Ifeanyi Eze will not be returning to the capital.
The Nigerian striker has decided to pursue options outside of the Isuzu UTE A-League after a standout season in Wellington which finished with him sharing the men’s player of the year award with captain Alex Rufer.
Eze was also voted the members’ and media men’s player of the year and claimed the Nix golden boot after scoring 10 goals.
Phoenix director of football Shaun Gill has thanked him for his contribution to the club.
“Eze has left a lasting impact on the Phoenix,” Gill said. “Not only did he show his quality by scoring 10 goals, but his incredible work-rate and professionalism set the standard for the team.
“And he is a great person who was adored by everyone at the club.
“We would have loved to have re-signed Eze and we opened discussions with him and his agent early in the season, but they made it clear they wanted to look outside the A-League.
“We wish him all the best for the future and will follow the next step in his footballing career with interest.”
Ifeanyi Eze says his time in Wellington has been an incredible chapter of his career.
“From the moment I arrived, the club, the fans, and the entire Wellington community made me feel right at home,” Eze said.
“I am honoured to have been able to contribute to the club’s history.
“I want to say a massive thank you to the coaching staff, my teammates, the Yellow Fever and all the fans for their unwavering support.
“The Phoenix will always hold a special place in my heart and will always be a home.
“I wish the club nothing but continued success in the future.”
The Wellington Phoenix still have 15 men’s players contracted for the 2026-27 A-League season and will make further squad announcements in the coming days.
