Tim Payne confirmed that after the 2026 World Cup he will be the new reinforcement for Olimpia of Paraguay

While competing in the 2026 World Cup with the New Zealand national team, Tim Payne made a decision that will mark a turning point in his career. The experienced defender confirmed that he will leave Australian-New Zealand football to become the new player for Olimpia in Paraguay once the World Cup is over.

The news generated a strong reaction both in Oceania and South America, where the footballer became one of the most talked-about names of the tournament thanks to his performance on the field and the unexpected popularity he gained on social media.

After seven seasons defending the colors of Wellington Phoenix, Payne will begin his first professional experience on the South American continent.

The announcement that surprised everyone during the World Cup

The confirmation came through a post made by the player himself on his social media. There, Payne explained the reasons that led him to accept the proposal from the Paraguayan club and expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead.

"Having the opportunity to play for Olimpia, the biggest club in Paraguay, is a great challenge and I can't wait", said the All Whites' full-back.

The defender also took the opportunity to say goodbye to Wellington Phoenix, the institution where he played 149 official matches and established himself as one of the team's key figures.

Beyond the football proposal, Payne revealed that the decision was influenced by personal and family matters.

The player explained that he wants his son to grow up closer to the Hispanic culture of his partner, photographer Michelle Peters. He even mentioned that he has been studying Spanish for some time with the goal of adapting more quickly to his new life in South America.

This detail particularly caught the attention of Latin American fans, who began to closely follow the New Zealander's career during the World Cup.

In his farewell message, Payne also dedicated a few words to Valen Scarsini, known on social media as "El Scarso", one of the main contributors to the explosion of popularity that the footballer experienced in Argentina and other countries in the region.

In recent weeks, the defender became the protagonist of memes, viral videos, and posts that multiplied his number of followers.

Rather than ignoring the phenomenon, Payne decided to publicly thank the support received and acknowledged the affection he found among South American fans.