Sligo Rovers sign New Zealand player Max Mata

Sligo Rovers v Shamrock Rovers in action at teh Showgrounds during the 2019 season.

Sligo Rovers v Shamrock Rovers in action at teh Showgrounds during the 2019 season. Credit: John Doyle (ETPhotos)

Sligo Rovers have added striker Max Mata to their squad for the 2022 League of Ireland season.

The New Zealander joins from US side Real Monarchs and has previously played in Europe with Swiss club Grasshopper as well as a loan spell in Estonia with Nomme Kalju. While at Kalju he played against Celtic in the Europa League Qualifiers in 2019.

The 21-year-old made his senior international debut for the All-Whites against Lithuania in 2019, appearing alongside another recent Sligo signing Nando Pijnaker. Mata was also an unused substitute against Ireland in Dublin days prior.

The deal is subject to work permit and international clearance.

The Auckland native had this to say the clubs media: “I’m very happy to join Sligo Rovers. When the chance came up I didn’t have to think long about it. I want to play games and I want to score goals and Ireland was very appealing. I’ve played in Europe before and done well and I definitely think I can do it again.

“I enjoyed the experience in America last season, with a regret of not playing as much as I would have liked. I’m very motivated to come to Sligo, play games and score goals.

 “I don’t think integration will be a problem being an English-speaking country. I’m excited to experience the League of Ireland and play here.

The Bit O’Red’s manager Liam Buckley spoke about the importance of getting another attacking player on board, “We’re delighted to get Max. He’s another really good footballer and a forward player to compliment Aidan Keena, Jordan Hamilton and Cillian Heaney who has done well this pre-season.

“He’s done well in Europe beforehand. From a career point of view he’s on the up and we can see how driven he is and how much he wants to do well in the game.

“He’s most certainly a number nine and can also play in a two. It’s good to have that option.



The manager hinted that there may be more signings on the way to The Showgrounds, “The squad is close to completion but we remain in the market certainly.

“There are players out there who are of interest. It’s important to have a squad to get us through the season and that it is balanced. It’s a long season with 40+ games in all competitions and we want to make sure we’re covered.

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