With the start of the Club World Cup on June 15 amid criticism for the exhausting matches schedule, an inspiring story emerged from within the New Zealand Auckland club, which participates in the championship with a high spirit despite the limited resources and the absence of full professionalism.
Unlike global stars such as Jude Bellingham, who have postponed surgeries for competition, Auckland City players live a different reality, as they balance their daily profession and their passion for football, in an experience that combines work and competition at the highest levels.
Selling director in the daytime … an attacker in the evening
“All of our players work outside football,” coach Paul Busa says.
Among them, Angus Kelkoli, who works as a sales manager for a home appliance, is leading his team’s attack line in the continental championships.
Back back
This story brings back to mind the experience of Andreon, the former New Zealand player, who participated in the 2010 World Cup while working as a bank, in a scene that reflects the continuity of the challenges facing New Zealand football on its way towards full professionalism.
Although the team is in a strong group that includes Benfica, Auckland City is going to the championship with hope and design, to confirm that the passion is not measured by professionalism but by insisting and believing in a dream.
