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'Be protagonists': Pedro Moreira ready to drive Auckland FC forward
Sport Nation • August 13th, 2026 7:46 am
Pedro Moreira | Photo: Photosport
Pedro Moreira has arrived in Auckland with respect for what came before him, but no shortage of ambition for what comes next.
The new Auckland FC coach has taken over a club that hit the ground running in its debut A-League Men season, finishing top of the table, and giving the Black Knights faithful plenty to believe in as they went a step further in their sophomore campaign to be crowned A-League champions.
Now Moreira wants to add his own stamp.
Speaking with Sport Nation Mornings’ Riccardo Ball, the Portuguese coach said Auckland’s next step is about mixing the standards already built by Steve Corica with his own attacking ideas.
“We want to be protagonists in our game, have the ball every time that is possible, use with quality the weakness of the opponents and of course increase with the qualities of our players,” Moreira said.
Moreira arrives with experience across Europe and Asia, including time working with Paulo Fonseca at clubs like Shakhtar Donetsk and Roma.
Auckland FC captain Hiroki Sakai and head coach Steve Corica celebrate with the A-League trophy | Photo: Andrew Cornaga/Photosport
But he was quick to point out Auckland FC is not starting again.
“It’s very important to speak about what Steve Corica achieved in this club,” he said.
“The board made an amazing work here, but also Steve made an amazing work.”
With young talent coming through, a strong pathway beneath the A-League side and two squad spots still open, Moreira believes there is room for Auckland to keep growing fast.
“Our main goal is really achieve the titles, achieve the victories, achieve something for the club, but especially to improve,” he said.
Harry Ngata on Auckland FC's community and club connection | Studs Up! podcast
For fans wondering what sort of football is coming, Moreira’s message was clear: brave, intelligent and built around the players he has.
He also said the club’s environment has already made a big impression.
“I’m one more inside of this quality club with a fantastic and amazing atmosphere.”
Moreira also opened up on recruitment, the challenge of replacing key players, Auckland’s upcoming Saudi test, Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s World Cup and why his English, like his new team, is still “under construction”.
Listen to the full interview below:
